#Ethical Thought / Cactus

[bss-samsiyye]

Adeia 2023

- The gods have been very good to my garden this year. I even had four plants make a miraculous recovery after I was certain they would die. So this year I'm thanking them for it with honey libations and by repotting everyone to air out the soil and fertilize it, and focusing mostly on asking for regular rain. We had some rain this winter, which should NOT happen, and on the other hand I've never seen less rain in a wet season...which of course did not stop my city from flooding because it used to be a wetland. I'm asking Ba'al for lots of rain next summer.

Pictured here: wild amaranth, rosemary, marigold, arnica + lavender, wild Mexican tea and a baby chayote.

- I also prayed for Demeter's blessings for the sustainable urban designs I'm submitting to the relevant government departments some time next week, and for a proposal I want to introduce in my neighborhood to switch to native grass species, plant more flowers for native pollinators and upgrade outside lighting to be more firefly-friendly. I also asked her, and Persephone, to protect agricultural land, which is being threatened by both global warming and an increasingly violent political situation.

- Collected organic waste in a jar for three days to mix with the plants' new potting soil. A friend of my grandmother's gave us chicken eggs from his sustainable farm so I felt more pressed to not just throw the egg shells away and show my thanks.

Pictured here: a grinding stone shaped like a pig, for Demeter, and crushed eggshells in a jar mixed with wilted carrots.

- The wheat I planted last year suffered an untimely death by pet rabbit (his name is Apollo) and the one I planted in March to replace it is taking it's time, so I offered it only in spirit.

Pictured here: rabbit-appropriate wheat (with some chickweed) and a green wheat stalk for the gods.

- I also planted cattails (ethically sourced from my local zoo's restored wetland habitat) to keep it water-themed. Some will go in my garden, others to friends' gardens, and a few to my grandmother's artificial pond.

- For the food offering, I wanted to prepare chiles en nogada, stuffed (big) peppers with walnut and goat cheese sauce and pomegranates for decoration. The ingredients for it are in season so I thought it was appropriate, but it's also a reminder that we have to think about where our food comes from and protect those sources. Chiles en nogada are a traditional September dish; unfortunately, the recipe has changed in recent years because one of the ingredients used in the stuffing, called acitrón, comes from a barrel cactus species which is now endangered. Alas, it's quite a labor-intensive dish and it's a busy weekend for my family, so we're making it next week instead.

[gothhabiba]

We’ve written extensively on the economics of a lot of products in Morocco and as always the result is the same: artisans are paid next to little while middlemen take extensive mark ups. But in a land where exploited artisans is the norm, the scale of exploitation with sabra was unmatched.

The sabra product made in those windswept towns are places where middlemen in Marrakech set up their workshops and where most products you find on Instagram or in the Marrakech medina are made. The areas are out of the eye of tourists as well as the clients of middlemen and much too inconvenient for buyers to visit for themselves. The artisans are simply too far away to know what is actually happening in the market and are largely unaware. It’s a perfect environment for a made up story to thrive.

In one of the most well known towns where sabra product is made there isn’t one single official cooperative. All the women work as individuals, who middlemen pit against each other to extract the cheapest price and turn around times. When we talked to the women, they laughed at the thought that they could sell their sabra pillows, which take them 5 days to make, for more than 50 MAD ($5 USD). That is 10 MAD a day ($1 USD per day) in a country where the minimum agricultural wage is 70 MAD per day. Oftentimes, the women are expected to pay for the material which comes out of the 50 MAD price they are paid. A middleman likely tells their buyers the artisans are happy with what they pay, and the women may very well be because they do not know any better.

[...] Collectivco (and we can list many other similar companies) just recently launched their new line of Sabra pillows for just $50 USD each. You can assume that they’re at least working with a margin of at least 50%, so they paid at most $25 USD for a pillow in the Marrakech medina, which falls in place with the break down above. To any ethical seller, you’d know that something isn’t quite right with a handmade product of such detail price at just $25. At that price either artisans are getting exploited or the material isn’t what the customer thinks it is. In the case of sabra rayon products it is both. While people in Morocco may just not know any better, that excuse does not extend to many foreign companies who benefit most from the deception and often drive such trends.  And let’s be real: if a company like Collectivco is selling you sabra is anything else they say legitimate?

-"The truth about Moroccan sabra: everything you ever wanted to know about the mythical cactus silk agave fiber"

[mike-png]

Opinions or thoughts on the philosophy themes/ references in rgu?

Essays

just so many Essays

I don't have many opinions on philosophy particularly that are jumping at me,

However Sayonji is definitely the kinda guy to hear arguments against Ethical egoism (because I believe that's what he believes in) and for those arguments to go into one ear and right out the other. I can just imagine him being all like "If psychological egoism is true, then it is only possible to be selfish, so why not even just be altruistic, why don't we just do everything for our own personal gain." and then Utena looking at him like "dude it can't be ethical with no ethics bitch."

But honestly just read from people with more to say, I think you'll really enjoy it.

You should watch that one scene though I don't remember which episode where basically: Touga and Akio are in a room (and they're shirtless cause y'know) and Akio is surrounded by all of these cacti, and they're talking about Utena. We then get a shot of Touga holding a cactus and as he talks a flower on top of the cactus blooms. A flower on a cactus blooming is a symbol for love, and so there are two ways to interpret this scene;

One, it's one of the first instances of Touga's genuine romantic feelings for Utena in a honest metaphorical display in contrast to Akio's dishonest, prickly asshole grooming.

Two, It shows the one sided dynamic of Touga and Akio (obviously cause Touga's 17 and Akio is an adult and) because of that same metaphor from above but for Touga's respect and attraction to Akio and Akio once again being a little prickly asshole.

I just think that the scene is interesting cause it says "Touga and Akio are the worst, and Touga is a teen still getting taken advantage of by Akio."

Thanks for the question! I hope this was insightful!

[changingplumbob]

York Household: Chapter 8, Part 3

Slumber Party Animal dreaming Kelly is ready for his sleepover. Calista and Aaron discuss how to ensure Deanna keeps honing her smarts, and what to do about Deanna's plans to move in Paris.

Here's a quick key as to which kid is which. First 5 were all born in game either to my sims or others. Atlas of course came with Growing Together.

Kelly: Thanks for coming

Anya: Between us, you're my favourite, but don't tell the others, seriously

Kelly: I've never been anyone's favourite though

Anya: Don't make me regret it

Fergus: Are we watching a movie or what

Drake: We can't pick

Kelly: My house, I pick

Chasity: Do any have subtitles

Drake: EA doesn't have that much inclusion. But you're not completely deaf right

Chasity: It's mild loss, tv audio can be tricky

Kelly: Would going straight to stories be easier

Chasity: I don't want to put anyone out

Kelly: Too late, I have decided it's storytime. Anyone complaining, complain to me

(Kelly may be evil but he's learning how to make people like him)

Calista: Just like that, our third one is grown

Aaron: I knew one of them had to get valedictorian

Calista: You taught them a proper work ethic

Aaron: I just hope she chooses her degree sensibly

Calista: Me to, but I'm sure we can help

Aaron: I don't want her frittering her YA years away

Calista: Then make sure she knows we expect her to go to university

Aaron: I had hoped the robotics station would be signal enough

Calista: But if we leave it she may just make robots forever, and not get any higher education

Aaron: I'll make sure we're all on the same page then

Kelly: It was a dark and stormy night when the school bus crashed in the middle of the desert. Bodies and metal went everywhere, but 4 kids survived. They collected what they could and set out in to the night

Atlas: Why not stay with the bus

Kelly: Because they were idiots Atlas. As I was saying, they left

Atlas: Absolute idiots

Kelly: They walked until they couldn't walk anymore and had to rest. The only shelter they could find was a series of rock shelves surrounded by strange plants. Part cactus, part something else

Chasity: What's the something else

Kelly: The kids didn't know so they settled down to sleep

Joey: BAM

The kids squeal at the surprise

Kelly: Jerk! What are you doing

Joey: You invited me

Kelly: I did not!

Joey: You told me you were having a sleepover, the invitation was implied

Atlas: Do you know the story

Joey: Who do you think told him?

Kelly: Let me tell it!

Joey: Fine but tell it right

Fergus: So the kids went to sleep, right Kelly?

Kelly: Not for long. Soon they were woken by an eerie whispering

Drake: How does a whisper wake you up

Kelly: Because it came with a cold wind okay

Anya: Hush Drake, just let him talk

Kelly: The kids were awake, and the whispering grew louder! Join us, it said

Drake: Who said?

Chasity: The voice obviously. Have you never heard a scary story before Drake?

Kelly: Join us and join mother, the voice said. The kids were properly freaked out and huddled together. It was then they realised, thre was only THREE of them

Fergus: Wait where did 4th go

Kelly: The kids wondered this. One wanted to go look but the others were too scared

Anya: Did they go look

Kelly: One did. She wandered out among the dunes chasing the voice. Several times she thought it was just in front of her, sometimes she could feel it whisper in her ear. She looked all night but never found the voice. When she returned to camp the others were DEAD

Joey: Really?

Kelly: Shut up Joey! Scrawled on the ground in the blood were the same words, join us, join mother. The one surviving kid suddenly realised the voice wasn't ahead or behind her. It was INSIDE THEIR HEAD! Then, she exploded!

Fergus: So much blood *shudders*

Joey: You lot should sleep now

Anya: But the voice...

Joey: When I told it there was less blood

Kelly: So more boring

Drake: But what was the voice

Kelly: No one knows. Remember, no one survived

Chasity: I hope I can't hear the voice

Fergus: It'll be easier for it to get you if you can't

Chasity: Stop pranking me!

Kelly: Joey leave already

Time for a game of, everyone PLEASE go to sleep where I want you to. To my shock it didn't take too long before all 10 sims are sleeping soundly right where I want them.

Aaron is up early for a jog. Everyone else wakes in their own time and Calista sets about making breakfast for all the kids.

Calista: French toast is served everyone

Fergus: Hooray for food

Paris: Is there enough for me

Calista: Of course dear. Did you have a good sleep

Paris: I did, thanks

Kelly: Is Deanna still lazing in bed

Paris: Oh no, she's already up and on that robotics bench

Calista: I'm glad she's making use of it, her pa will be so pleased

Paris: He's really in to further study huh

Calista: He dreams of all the kids getting degrees really, he's always pushed them to work

Calista: I'm sure your parents would have wanted you to attend university to

Paris: I don't know, maybe. Further study seems daunting

Calista: Only daunting until you try it

Paris: So if I move in will Aaron expect me to go to university

Calista: I... Hmm

Paris: Because that's quite a condition

Kelly: Are you moving in with us

Paris: Deanna offered but I've not made my mind up

Atlas: I'd hate to stay in the foster home, you hear the worst stories

Calista: Yes...

Paris: Speaking of, I better get back. Thank you for having me Calista

Calista: Yes...

Kelly: Never come again

Paris: Whatever

Calista is cleaning up when the Pancakes arrive to pick up Fergus.

Eliza: So glad we didn't have to host that

Calista: Kelly managed to get gold somehow

Bob: Then why do you look tense

Calista: It seems my daughter invited her girlfriend to move in without telling us

Eliza: Do you not like her

Calista: She is nice but they're both so young

Aaron: Who are we talking about

Calista: Deanna invited Paris to move in

Aaron: She did not. Well it's not happening

Calista: I don't think putting our foot down is the right answer

Aaron: She's too young to have a live in, plus she has study to do. I'll tell her if you don't want to, I don't mind being the bad guy

Calista: She'll bring up Devin flatting with Luna

Aaron: But there was a whole group of them together, not just two. Deanna needs to study, meet her potential

Bob: Does she want to

Aaron: She's valedictorian Bob, she's going to

...

Deanna: What are you doing

Kelly: Imagining gore with bun bun

Deanna: That's a choice?

Snow day! To Willow Creek park we go. Snowball fight time, or rather, everyone throws snowballs at poor Deanna time.

With the building of snowpals Aaron takes the opportunity to talk with Deanna.

Aaron: Paris told your ma that she was thinking of moving in

Deanna: That's good

Aaron: Is it

Deanna: Isn't it? She has to be out of that foster home at 18. Pa she has no family left. I want to bring her in to ours

Aaron: Honeybug, your heart is in the right place but 18 is very young to commit yourself to another person

Deanna: I wasn't proposing marriage pa, just sharing a home

Aaron: Yes but you have your studies to consider

Deanna: Devin studied and lived with Luna. Does she get a special exception just because she's the eldest

Aaron: No but they lived with 3, 4 other people

Deanna: You, ma and Kelly are 3 other people

Aaron: I'm meant to be the lawyer

Deanna: Are you saying she can't move in

Aaron: We wouldn't say that, those rooms are yours. But please consider your relationship carefully. Life is long and sometimes, love can be short

Deanna: Not for you and ma

Aaron: No, not for us

Deanna: So trust me to take the right kind of risks. I'm going to make mistakes now and then, but who doesn't. I'm not so afraid of it going south that I won't try

Previous Part ... Next Part

[justakon]

Thoughts on mayuri?

unprompted | accepting always

what was he supposed to say that didn't sound either overly uninterested or somewhat elated? he had thoughts about the man. many, many thoughts. it was similar to his thoughts about kisuke. both were the only two people who could make him visibly annoyed and get away with it. other people didn't get that reaction. they got his disinterest, rude cockiness and sometimes marked disdain.

and yet he was still the approachable one, unlike the man who he was asked about. what was it that someone said about him? more prickly than a cactus. that was more or less true. even if he didn't want to agree with it. as for his captain, well, he was the man who had taught him all things science. under his firm and sometimes strict tutorage he had learned to excel and be better than most. he learned his no-nonsense work ethic from him. he was also the one he had learned many things from.

he admired many things about him. his seemingly cruel actions of doing what needs to be done. to others, they might seem cruel, like when he had made the decision to sacrifice tens of thousands of souls to stabilize the world without a blink of an eye. most were abhorrent of that but it was hypocrisy on their part since it needed to be done. would they have rather had the world collapse? it was the greater of two evils and they all have made a decision like that in one form or the other. they were just quick to judge mayuri because he was different. unrelenting. unapologetic. and got things done. no matter the cost. akon himself wasn't at that level. but he did do things to that accord, in his own way.  

his captain was one of a kind. inimitable to a fault. and perhaps he preferred it that way. no one could be him anyway.

he might be seen as a strange, unknown entity that should be feared and avoided to most. but to akon, he was someone who did what needed to be done. and for that, he would always have his respect. even if he did annoy the shit out of him most times.

' he's my captain. what else is there to say about him? '

[numberoneheartcycle]

Top Vegan Leather Bag Materials: Discover Stylish & Durable Options for 2024

The demand for bags that combine style with sustainability is at an all-time high, and it's no surprise! With the rise of eco-conscious fashion, more people are seeking cruelty-free options that don’t compromise on quality. This is where vegan leather bag materials come into the picture, offering durability, style, and a kinder approach to Mother Nature. Gone are the days when leather meant luxury. Today, materials like Piñatex, made from pineapple leaves, and mushroom leather are stealing the spotlight. These innovative vegan leather options not only look sleek but also pack the same punch as traditional leather in terms of endurance and elegance. Whether you're shopping for a chic handbag or a robust backpack, these sustainable alternatives are leading the charge in fashion-forward and eco-friendly bag design. Let's explore why these materials are the future of fashion and how they're changing the game for stylish accessories.

Understanding Vegan Leather

Vegan leather is making waves in the sustainable fashion industry, and for a good reason! It offers a guilt-free alternative to traditional leather, all while keeping style and functionality intact. But what exactly is vegan leather, and why should you consider it for your next stylish bag?

What is Vegan Leather? Vegan leather, also known as faux leather, is a material that mimics the look and feel of animal leather but doesn’t involve any animal products. Sounds interesting, right? It’s crafted from a variety of sources, primarily synthetic materials like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane (PU). However, the innovation doesn't stop there! Many manufacturers are now using natural materials like pineapple leaves, cork, apple peels, and even cactus to create biodegradable alternatives. The composition of vegan leather ensures it's flexible, waterproof, and highly durable, perfect for making bags, shoes, and accessories that withstand daily wear and tear. Some brands are even enhancing their vegan leather products with advanced technology to mimic the texture and aging of real leather. Benefits of Using Vegan Leather So, why should you switch to vegan leather? The benefits are numerous and compelling: - Environmentally Friendly: Traditional animal leather production involves extensive use of natural resources and releases harmful emissions. Vegan leather, especially those made from plant materials, dramatically reduces your carbon footprint. Read more about its environmental benefits. - Ethical: By choosing vegan leather, you take a stand against animal cruelty. Unlike animal leather, no animals are harmed in its production, making it a cruelty-free choice for those concerned about animal welfare. - Versatility and Style: Vegan leather comes in various textures, colors, and finishes, offering you endless styling possibilities. Whether you're into sleek urban looks or something more eclectic, there's a vegan leather option for you. - Cost-Effective: Generally, vegan leather is more affordable than real leather, making eco-friendly fashion accessible without breaking the bank. Incorporating vegan leather into your wardrobe isn’t just a fashion statement; it's an investment in sustainability and compassion. Whether you're buying thoughtful gifts or treating yourself to a new vegan leather bag, you’re supporting a movement that's better for our planet and its inhabitants. Are you ready to make the switch? Discover more about the top environmental benefits of vegan leather options in this insightful blog and consider how you can integrate this amazing alternative into your lifestyle.

Popular Vegan Leather Bag Materials

In recent years, the world of fashion has seen an exciting shift towards vegan leather bag materials. These alternatives not only help in reducing animal cruelty but also offer stylish, durable, and sustainable options. Let's explore some of the most popular materials that are paving the way for environmentally-friendly and chic bags! Pinatex (Pineapple Leather)

Piñatex is a revolutionary material derived from pineapple leaves. This innovative vegan leather alternative is made by extracting fibers from the leaves, which are usually considered waste in pineapple harvesting. - Sourcing: Unlike traditional leather that relies on animal hides, Piñatex utilizes agricultural waste, making it a significant step forward in sustainability. - Durability: It's surprisingly resilient, offering a texture similar to traditional leather while being lightweight and breathable. - Sustainability Benefits: By using pineapple leaves, Piñatex not only provides farmers with an additional income stream but also reduces the environmental impact of leather production. Mushroom Leather (MuSkin)

Mushroom Leather, known commercially as MuSkin, is crafted from mushroom caps. This eco-friendly material grows using mycelial cells, which require minimal resources and energy. - Production Process: The process involves growing mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, under optimal conditions. The material is then treated to enhance its longevity and feel. - Eco-Friendly Attributes: Since mushrooms naturally decompose, MuSkin is fully biodegradable, offering an excellent sustainable alternative to animal leather. Cactus Leather Desserto, a brand pioneering this innovative material, creates Cactus Leather using the Nopal cactus. - Unique Properties: Cactus Leather is durable, water-resistant, and has a soft touch similar to animal leather. - High-End Fashion: Its luxurious feel and eco-friendly nature make it perfect for high-end fashion brands looking to blend style and sustainability. Apple Leather Apple Leather is a trendy option in vegan fashion, made from the waste of apple juice production. - Composition: Typically, 50% of apple waste is combined with polyurethane to create a soft yet strong material. - Appeal: Its unique texture and eco-appeal make it a favorite among brands aiming for sustainable yet stylish designs. Grape Leather Emerging from the world of winemaking, Grape Leather upcycles byproducts from wine production, adding a new twist to vegan materials. - Innovative Use: The process utilizes grape skins, seeds, and stems, transforming them into a versatile leather alternative. - Eco-Friendly: By utilizing waste from the wine industry, grape leather reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional leather production. These vegan leather alternatives not only offer durability and style but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Isn't it amazing how nature's waste can transform into fashion's treasures? https://www.pinterest.com/pin/633248397632655124/

Comparative Durability of Vegan Leather Materials

When it comes to vegan leather bag materials, durability is often a top concern for buyers. With so many alternatives on the market, how do these eco-friendly options actually stack up in terms of longevity? Let's dive into the two essential aspects of durability: water resistance and wear and tear. Water Resistance Is vegan leather waterproof? It's a common question, especially when you're considering a bag that needs to withstand the elements. The answer lies in the type of vegan leather. - Polyurethane (PU) Leather: Generally more water-resistant than real leather, PU's synthetic nature means it won't soak up water easily. This makes it a good choice for any bag you might take out on a rainy day. Read more about PU leather's water resistance. - Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Leather: Similar to PU, PVC also offers good water resistance. However, it is less breathable, which might not be as comfortable for clothing but works well for bags. - Cork Leather and Mushroom Leather: These are natural-based vegan leather options. While not as water-resistant as their synthetic cousins, they still perform well under moderate moisture conditions. You might think of them like a sponge – able to repel a small bit of water but not a deluge.

Wear and Tear When you're investing in a bag, you want to make sure it withstands daily use, right? Each type of vegan leather has its own strengths and weaknesses. - PU and PVC Leathers: These materials can handle a fair amount of daily use, but they might begin to show signs of wear over time, such as peeling or cracking. This is akin to how a balloon might slowly deflate over time if not maintained. - Cork Leather: Known for its natural durability and resistance to abrasion, cork leather is a resilient choice. It ages gracefully, much like a fine wine, developing a unique character over time. Learn more about vegan leather durability. - Recycled Rubber and Other Innovative Materials: These are often praised for their ability to resist scratches and tears. Picture a car tire – tough, robust, and reliable. Understanding the differences can help you make an informed choice for your next stylish, eco-friendly bag. Knowing what to expect from various vegan leather materials will help ensure you pick the best option for your needs, whether it’s battling rain or surviving the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Fashion Trends in Vegan Leather Bags

Vegan leather bags have become a sensation in the fashion world, combining style, sustainability, and ethics into one delightful package. As more people become conscious about their environmental footprint, these bags are becoming the preferred choice for fashion-savvy individuals. But what makes vegan leather bags so appealing in today's fashion? Let’s explore some stylish designs and the brands leading the charge! Popular Styles and Designs Vegan leather bags are not just about looking good; they're about feeling good about your choices too. Fashion designers are crafting bags in a variety of styles to cater to different tastes: - Tote Bags: Perfect for carrying everything you need, tote bags made from vegan leather offer a blend of practicality and elegance. They're a must-have for anyone on the go! - Crossbody Bags: These are all the rage, offering convenience and style. With adjustable straps and sleek designs, they're ideal for day-to-night transitions. - Backpacks: Who says backpacks can't be fashionable? Vegan leather backpacks combine functionality with a modern twist, perfect for students and professionals alike.

Photo by nappy Want to stay on trend? Check out this guide on the trendsetting appeal of vegan handbags for more insights on styles and designs. Brand Spotlight: Leading Vegan Leather Bag Brands When it comes to leading the way in vegan leather, several brands are at the forefront. Whether you’re looking for something high-end or budget-friendly, these brands have you covered: - Stella McCartney: Known for luxury without compromise, Stella McCartney crafts high-quality vegan leather bags that are as chic as they are sustainable. - Matt & Nat: This brand is synonymous with eco-conscious fashion, offering a wide range of stylish bags made from innovative materials like recycled plastic bottles. - Gunas: Known for vibrant colors and unique designs, Gunas proves that eco-friendly can be exciting. - Angela Roi: Combining elegance and ethics, Angela Roi's bags are crafted with love, making them a favorite among fashion enthusiasts. Explore more about these insightful brands in this comprehensive review of the best vegan bags. Vegan leather bags are not just following fashion trends; they're setting them. By choosing bags crafted from vegan leather bag materials, you’re making a statement that's both stylish and environmentally responsible. Isn't it time to add one to your collection?

Caring for Vegan Leather Bags

Vegan leather bags are a chic and cruelty-free choice that many are falling head over heels for these days. But like any good relationship, they require some love and attention to keep them looking fabulous. So, how do you make sure your vegan leather bags stay in top-notch condition? Let's dive into some practical tips that will keep your stylish companions looking fresh and fabulous! Cleaning and Maintenance Tips When it comes to cleaning vegan leather bags, the process can be simple yet effective. Regular maintenance helps extend the life of these products, keeping them looking new and stylish. - Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth with some mild soap to wipe down your bag. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that might damage the surface. Sans Beast's guide on cleaning vegan leather suggests a simple mix of water and detergent for stubborn stains. - Spot Treatment: Got a specific mark or stain? A little distilled white vinegar can do wonders. Dab it gently on the affected area and let it dry. - Avoid Over-wetting: Too much water can be the enemy. Always ensure your cloth is just damp, not drenched. - Regular Maintenance: Keep an eye on your bag regularly. A quick weekly wipe-down is often enough to keep those faux leather surfaces shimmering! For a more detailed explanation on how to care for your vegan leather, check out Leather Honey's article for practical tips.

Storage Best Practices Proper storage is another key factor in maintaining your vegan leather bag's appearance and functionality. It's like giving your fashion accessory a cozy little bed to rest in! - Avoid Direct Sunlight: Just like human skin, vegan leather can be sensitive to UV rays. Keeping your bag out of direct sunlight prevents fading and cracking. - Stuff and Shape: To maintain the bag's shape, consider stuffing it with tissue paper or a soft cloth when not in use. - Use Dust Bags: A breathable dust bag will protect your bag from dust and dirt while allowing air circulation. - Controlled Environment: Keep your bag in a cool, dry place. Humidity can cause mold growth, which is a definite no-no. Taking these steps not only helps in maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your vegan leather bags but also prolongs their lifespan, ensuring that they remain a staple in your wardrobe for years to come. Wouldn't it be nice if all relationships were this easy to maintain?

Conclusion

Vegan leather bag materials are redefining the fashion industry with their durability, style, and environmental benefits. A fantastic range of options like cactus, pineapple, and corn-based leathers offer both sustainability and aesthetic appeal. These innovative materials prove that fashion doesn't have to compromise the planet or style. Why settle for traditional leather when there's a world of exciting alternatives waiting to be explored? Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or an eco-conscious shopper, embracing these vegan leather options can make a stylish statement that's also kind to the Earth. Join us on this thrilling journey towards a sustainable future by opting for bags crafted from vegan leather materials. Your choice is a step toward a more responsible and fashionable world. What’s your pick for the next bag—cactus or pineapple leather? Let us know in the comments, and let's keep the conversation going! Read the full article

[m8tee-mate]

Unveiling Style: M8tee's Arizona Collection

Introduction

Picture this: the sun setting over the vast Arizona desert, casting hues of orange and pink across the horizon. Now, imagine capturing that essence in your wardrobe. Welcome to M8tee's Arizona Collection, a trendsetting marvel that brings the spirit of the Wild West to your everyday style. In this article, we'll delve into the intricacies of this collection, exploring its unique features and why it's a must-have for fashion enthusiasts.

1. The Wild West Resurrected

Buckle up, fashion aficionados! M8tee's Arizona Collection breathes life into the rugged charm of the Wild West. Think cowboy boots, fringe details, and a dash of cowboy hat flair. It's not just clothing; it's a journey through time, where the Wild West meets contemporary fashion.

2. M8tee's Arizona Palette

Dive into a palette inspired by the Arizona landscape. Earthy tones mirroring the desert, fiery reds reminiscent of the sunset, and cool blues representing the clear desert sky. M8tee's Arizona Collection isn't just about clothes; it's about wearing Arizona on your sleeve, quite literally.

3. Quality Meets Comfort

Fashion isn't just about looks; it's about feel too. M8tee's Arizona Collection prioritizes quality fabrics that embrace you in comfort. From breathable cotton to soft suede, each piece is crafted for comfort that lasts throughout your day.

4. Versatility Redefined

Why limit yourself? This collection seamlessly transitions from casual to chic. Pair a graphic tee with jeans for a daytime stroll or throw on a stylish jacket to transform into an evening showstopper. M8tee's Arizona Collection is your passport to versatile styling.

5. Iconic Arizona Motifs

Ever seen a cactus on a t-shirt and thought, "That's cool"? M8tee's Arizona Collection is filled with iconic motifs inspired by the state's unique flora and fauna. Embrace the desert aesthetic with clothing that tells a story.

6. Craftsmanship at Its Finest

Behind every piece is a story of craftsmanship. M8tee's Arizona Collection doesn't just focus on style; it's a testament to the dedication of skilled artisans. Each stitch and detail is a nod to the artistry that goes into creating these fashion marvels.

7. From Day to Night: Styling Tips

Transition seamlessly from a daytime adventure to a night out on the town with expert styling tips. Mix and match your Arizona pieces for a wardrobe that's as dynamic as your lifestyle.

8. Celebrities' Choice

Wondering who else is embracing the Wild West vibe? Dive into the world of celebrities who have made M8tee's Arizona Collection a staple in their wardrobes. Discover how A-listers are incorporating desert chic into their red carpet looks.

9. Sustainability Spotlight

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[butterflyseraph]

Oh my god, Pretty Boy Reo!!! I actually wanna cosplay him someday hehe

"The good thing is that between you two is that there are never any misunderstandings, at least not for Iong; you express yourselves when something's wrong, which immediately defuses potential problems."

It's interesting because depending on the person, I can be extremely open about my more vulnerable feelings or just mask them completely. I feel like Reo would be someone who I'm able to open up to a little easier. He's just so charismatic to me, but in a soothing way.

"Reo would never make you feel like you're too much; on the contrary, he'd be the first to spot you in the crowd, grab your arm, and include you in the group. I don't think there's ever any ambiguity between you two; it's smooth, and no one could question your friendship."

Hilariously, one of thing I noticed as I was reading through the matchup was how I actually relate to Nagi in a lot of aspects. My love for gaming aside, I can be very "lazy" due to my executive dysfunction. I remember in the movie, Nagi told Reo that Reo never made him feel like he was a hassle. Other than my big shipper ass going crazy over that line, it just really struck a chord with me as someone who suffers from executive dysfunction and experiences a lot of guilt as a result.

...should I get a cactus and name it Choki-

"If he starts playing, it's not only to be with you but to understand the mechanics of those games. Maybe it'll inspire him on the field, like giving him a sharper understanding of his opponents' mindset. Immersive games often lead to introspection and analysis- making choices, challenging one's ethics, etc."

Oh my god Reo would love tactical RPGs. REO I'M DRAGGING YOU INTO MY FIRE EMBLEM BRAINROT.

"You see, I think Reo is one of the characters in the whole manga with whom you quickly feel comfortable; he has a very close, very human vibe. Very relatable. So, I have no doubt you'd feel at ease with him quickly, to the point where you'd let him approach you even from behind for a surprise hug."

A surprise hug from Reo sounds so sweet. I still remember that iconic scene of him hugging Nagi as he played Nagi's game, and one of my many thoughts was "I want to recreate that with a future romantic partner" lmaoooo

"And it would make him so happy to receive your affection too. I can't imagine him not sharing affectionate gestures with his significant other, no way."

The most guaranteed way to get me to come out of my shell when it comes to physical affection is to initiate it and then sit and wait. Eventually, I'll probably be giving just as many surprise back hugs as he does, haha!

"Actually. he kind of reminds me of a knight sometimes, you know? The one who opens and holds the door for you, the one who tells everyone on the escalator to move to the right so you can go faster. The one who always orders your dish without the sides you don't like. Those kinds of small, discreet attentions that are incredibly satisfying to experience daily."

I am genuinely gushing over the thought of Reo as a knight lmaoooo. The more I think about it, the more I feel like acts of service impact me more than I'd like to admit. I mean, I become a bumbling mess if a friend does anything for me: imagine a romantic partner 😅

"I see him as someone materialistic, so all the gifts you give him, he keeps them carefully at home and doesn't throw anything away, even if they seem completely ordinary or insignificant. As long as it's from you, he'll keep it until his death (which makes me think his inheritance might be complicated)"

Lmao, my mind shifted from knight Reo to dragon-guarding-his-hoard Reo. The fact that both are very fitting images of him makes this even funnier to me.

"Two little sunshines <3"

🌞🌞🌞 Yeah!!! 🌞🌞🌞

Bonus:

"I first thought of Niko (the "attracted to the realistic, grounded types" you know) but I figured he would be too quiet and solitary for your need to be with others. Lack of communication, as always."

Ooh, Niko! Yeah, I get what you mean. I feel like we'd make pretty decent friends tho!

Anywayyyy, thank you again for doing this with me! Sorry my response took so long, but thank you so much for your patience!!!

BLUE LOCK MATCHUP EXCHANGE — @butterflyseraph

Your match is...

— Mikage Reo

✦ It wasn't easy; I thought of several characters, but each time I was like, "hmm no."

✦ I figured it had to be someone who wouldn’t make you feel like you were too much.

✦ … So, not someone introverted.

✦ Or someone who doesn’t communicate enough.

✦ We all know where relationships go when one person doesn't communicate enough…

✦ *cough cough*

✦ I think you and Reo make a very balanced duo. He’s naturally sociable, loves approaching people and showing interest in them (not necessarily for personal gain; that’s just how he is).

✦ That made me think of how you tend to appear very open with others at first.

✦ It’s something that can unsettle shy people, but with him, it would only be appealing.

✦ Anyway, if it hadn’t been you, he would have come to you sooner or later.

✦ I can totally see you two as the duo that always has a bunch of friends orbiting around them. You’re the headliners, the queen bee duo of the university.

✦ The good thing is that between you two, there are never any misunderstandings, at least not for long; you express yourselves when something’s wrong, which immediately defuses potential problems.

✦ The trope of best buddies, obviously.

✦ Reo would never make you feel like you’re too much; on the contrary, he’d be the first to spot you in the crowd, grab your arm, and include you in the group. I don’t think there’s ever any ambiguity between you two; it’s smooth, and no one could question your friendship.

✦ He loves your contrasting personality—the fact that you appear quite cute on the outside but enjoy less conventional and niche things. I think he’s interested in those things too because he wants to understand them—and, by extension, understand you.

✦ Whatever you like or do, it piques his interest, and in a sincere way. No hidden motives. To me, Reo is truly someone loyal and reliable in friendship. He doesn’t try to play games—except during a match, but that’s part of the sport.

✦ I like to imagine you playing a soccer video game while he’s actually playing soccer.

✦ That’s probably not the kind of game you play, though; I see you more with games like The Wolf Among Us, Genshin Impact, The Binding of Isaac, or Outer Wilds. But you know, I think those games could interest him in a way too. They’re successful games, and he’d be curious about why. After all, Reo is still a business-minded person.

✦ And if he starts playing, it’s not only to be with you but to understand the mechanics of those games. Maybe it’ll inspire him on the field, like giving him a sharper understanding of his opponents’ mindset. Immersive games often lead to introspection and analysis—making choices, challenging one’s ethics, etc.

✦ In short, things we regularly see at Blue Lock, let’s be honest.

✦ "Physical Affection (giving and receiving, although I do need to be properly acclimated to a person: it's basically my ultimate form of affection)" You see, I think Reo is one of the characters in the whole manga with whom you quickly feel comfortable; he has a very close, very human vibe. Very relatable. So, I have no doubt you’d feel at ease with him quickly, to the point where you’d let him approach you even from behind for a surprise hug.

✦ And it would make him so happy to receive your affection too. I can’t imagine him not sharing affectionate gestures with his significant other, no way.

✦ Actually, he kind of reminds me of a knight sometimes, you know? The one who opens and holds the door for you, the one who tells everyone on the escalator to move to the right so you can go faster. The one who always orders your dish without the sides you don’t like. Those kinds of small, discreet attentions that are incredibly satisfying to experience daily.

✦ I see him as someone materialistic, so all the gifts you give him, he keeps them carefully at home and doesn’t throw anything away, even if they seem completely ordinary or insignificant. As long as it’s from you, he’ll keep it until his death.

✦ (Which makes me think his inheritance might be complicated)

✦ Two little sunshines <3

A word about your match: I first thought of Niko (the "attracted to the realistic, grounded types" you know) but I figured he would be too quiet and solitary for your need to be with others. Lack of communication, as always.

© TIGREBLVNC 2024 | INTERESTED IN A MATCHUP EXCHANGE? CHECK THIS.

[cactusnotes]

Ethical Egoism

Normative, Teleological, Subjective, Agent-Focused Ethical Theory. “Psychological Egoism is a theory of human nature that purports to describe what motivates people to act. Ethical egoism...is normative. It purports to well us how people ought to act.” - Driver

Agent focused ethic based on self-interest as opposed to altruism: altruism is the attitude of acting for the sake of others, egoism is based on self-interest. Ethical egoism is the act of being rationally selfish, as it’s our purpose for the long term. 

In fact, using reason, it is clear our telos is our own interest: denying your own needs isn’t just. It rejects deontology, since laws restrict our own needs, and psychological egoism. It does not matter whether we are all intrinsically egotistical, we have to act so, it’s our telos. 

Ethical theory that matches the moral agent's psychological state (psychological egoism): the belief that every action is rooted in one’s own self interest, makes one happy, to avoid pain. It’s not inherently negative or bad--nobody has to be ruthless and cruel, just not selfless. Furthermore, selfish lacks real meaning. A social construct, motives, actual acts, avoiding worse?We cannot truly judge one’s motives, so it’s unfalsifiable, thus not a real science to some. However, psychological is different to ethical, as it supports things like short term interest: drinking alcohol. 

Concentration on long term self-interests rather than short term interests: in the short term unselfishness could lead to longer term selfishness satisfied. This thus rejects material gain, and pure selfishness (contributing to a union of egoists). 

 Max Stirner, is self-interest the root cause of every human action even if it appears altruistic: inspired by Hegel, his quiet life didn’t reflect chaotic writing. Influenced: Nietzsche, Marx, anarchy. 

Psychological egoism is correct to an extent: some ethical decisions are made in self interest. However, we don’t know what the self is, so we cannot seek self-interest actively, it’s ambiguous. Someone who feels they are a slave, and are obliged to act as such, are not being themselves. Actions done with the idea that there is no other option (actually or metaphorically) are not self. 

Language and rationality are human inventions that haunt and restrict their maker, the maker lost. Religious, philosophical systems of ethics and instinct are ‘essences’ and ‘ghosts’ in our decisions. 

Einzige = the ego. 

“There is no sinner and no sinful egoism” - Stirner.

Actual egoism exists outside of the systems we are slaves to, once we have found out ‘ownness’. 

Our telos is to gain mastery over our owness and live through this ‘unique’ self we have. 

“Totally different from this free thinking is own thinking, my thinking, a thinking which does not guide me, but is guided, continued, or broken off, by me at my pleasure.” - Stirner. 

These structures are deeply integrated into us, seen in fears of nakedness, naturalness, selfishness. Institutions cannot be good in themselves, we must discover our ‘self’ which will say what’s right. They probably aren’t right though, as they hinder self development, and enforce rules. Philosophers aren’t exempt--they reject God but follow his laws? Agree incest is wrong?

“I decided whether it is the right thing in me; there is no right outside of this” - Stirner.

Analogy: giving to the hopeless, party psychological egoism, partly social expectations, guilt. However, there are charities for the homeless, so we don’t need to do it, we were reluctant to do it. 

Stirner is not amoral, he rejects institutions, and we need to select our own laws from them. 

“Do not seek for freedom...seek for yourself...just recognise what you really are, and let go of your hypocritical endeavours, your foolish mania to be something else than you are.” - Stirner. 

Eigenheit is ownness, different from the perceived self, is the idea of mastering oneself. To be free includes rejecting the subconscious ideals, ideologies, religious or philosophical concepts. Only this way can you pursue, selfishly. 

“He is an unfree man in the garment of freedom” - Stirner.

Owness is a descriptor, not an idea (like religion and morality) but leads to ideas like freedom. 

“What’s good, what’s bad? Why, I am my own concern, and I am neither good nor bad.” - Stirner. 

Einzig is uniqueness. To appreciate yourself is ownness; to apply owness is to become unique. You are the only person who owns your ‘self’, which means you are unique!

“Egoism does not think of sacrificing anything...it simply decides what I want I must have.” - Stirner.

If everyone was unique, it doesn’t make everyone equal, equality is an enslaving ideology. Nor are people unequal, rather they are all unique, individual, incomparable or able to be equated. 

He uses the analogy of the Protestant reformation: meant to reduce control, and inspire individual faith, but instead made more things religious, like priests marrying, and intensified internal conflict. 

If you voted for a rule, you’re free to break it, so not to be bound by “my will of yesterday”. 

Stirner’s view of love is kind of dodgy, where it is only when you ‘enjoy’ the other person: not love. 

“We are all in the midst of an abundance; now shall I not help myself?” - Stirner, meaning unknown. 

Rejection of egoism for material gain:

Sensual appetites are also rejected by the self, or else the self has an obligation, an emotional attachment, a link to society’s expectations. You serve your future, act in a way that’s genuinely good for yourself, or else you're not an egoist, which rejects material gain. 

Union of egoists:

There is no obligation to be equal, but also no obligation to be cruel, materialistic, or anarchist. 

Stirner advocated for co-operation between egos, not to own each other, but for practicality. 

The sole purpose of a community like this, a union of egoists, is to help people find their selves.

This union is a society where cooperation prevailed in recognition of everyone's uniqueness. 

It is true, honest, respectful, impermanent, supportive of all goals, with no goal in the union itself. 

It has no actual authority of value, it is a co-worker of autonomy. A support system, not actual. 

Stirner sees no need to reject the state, but believes it will fall away naturally for this union. 

Destruction of a community ethos:

Society weakens if there is no common good produced. But if everyone’s happy...who cares? It may lead to anarchy and social chaos, as if the union of egoists doesn’t exist and we’re all beasts. There’s no security to fulfil our own self interest, which goes against its own ideas. But that’s what the Union is for. 

Social injustices could occur as individuals put their own interests first:

Some could argue that rape, racism and conflict are allowed as it is satisfying for the person. However, this is inherently short term, and takes away other’s own fulfilment of self interest. It doesn’t matter to him, his audience’s feelings are of no issue. He does not condemn the widow who strangles her infant, incest, murder, and the like, which could all be justified. 

A form of bigotry (why is one moral agent more important than any other?):

Prioritising yourself is wrong, selfish, and discrimination of others. However, the alternative is you prioritise others, which is also bigotry, as you downplay your own relevance, discriminating against yourself. 

Furthermore, focusing on yourself isn’t inherently selfish or discrimination: focusing on art doesn’t discriminate against science. Our world is literally ourselves, it’s only rational to do so. We cannot confirm anything outside ourselves, so why should we focus on the uncertain over certain?

How can one fulfil or find themselves if they’re subject to prejudice, bigotry, or clashing interest? However, that is their own fault, for not escaping their society’s opinion, so they pay the price. 

[inkweaver22-blr]

Phew! This one gave me a bit of trouble to get out! Here we have our second big reveal of the story! Let’s see what happens.

AO3 Link

<Previous | First | Next>

Scattered Cicadas - Chapter Five: Timely Assumptions

Tang gets more than he expects at the start of one cycle. This leads to a few startling realizations.

----------

Tang looked up into the frightened expressions of the much younger Sun Wukong and Macaque as his body continued to disappear.

“I-” Being erased scared him. Would he wake up in a new cycle or simply cease to be?

Tang weakly lifted his hand, desperate to do something, grab something to ground him. Anything. Anyone!

“I don't w-want to go-”

He faded out of existence, not hearing anything else they might have said after. The last thing he saw were their horrified faces.

----------

The cave. The voices. The light.

----------

Tang woke with a gasp, his heart racing.

He had died before, but accidentally erasing yourself using a time-traveling peanut cactus was a new and terrifying experience.

The scholar took a few deep breaths, grounding himself with the fact that he was still here and hadn’t been deleted entirely. He had never been so relieved to be stuck jumping between timelines before now.

Tang winced as he remembered the anguish on the faces of the two monkeys he had befriended. He hoped his vanishing hadn’t traumatized them too much. If they were lucky they wouldn’t even remember anything now that the version of himself that had gone back in time had never existed in the first place.

God, time travel was confusing.

He glanced around his room and noticed a book on his nightstand. Picking it up, he was slightly disappointed to find it wasn’t the one on constellations he had used to teach the younger Macaque how to read.

With a sigh, Tang got up and prepared for the day. There was no point dwelling too much on what couldn’t be changed. Once dressed he stood in front of the mirror and began his little remembering ritual.

He first checked the date on his phone. It was still a few days before MK would get the staff so nothing of real consequence should be too different yet.

Taking a deep breath the scholar began reciting what he remembered about himself this time.

“I am the immortal monk Tang Sanzang-”

Tang choked as he doubled over in pain.

Hundreds of years of memories flooded through him. He collapsed to the ground and clutched at his head as it pounded in agony from the onslaught of innumerable experiences.

Tang crawled over to his bed and leaned back against it, his eyes shut tight and hands over his ears in a vain attempt to block out the rushing thoughts.

Living humbly as a monk. Being chosen by Guanyin. The journey. Sun Wukong. Bai Long Ma. Zhu Bajie. Sha Wujing. The many, many demons they encountered.

(How had he ever been so naive?)

Completing the journey. Becoming immortal. He, Bajie, and Wujing choosing to live on Earth instead of in Heaven.

(Pigsy was Zhu Bajie and Sandy was Sha Wujing!)

Wukong sealing away the Demon Bull King and vanishing. The three of them searching for him tirelessly. Never finding him. Giving up and living the next five hundred years without him.

(He should have never given up. He should have kept looking until he found his beloved disciple.)

It was all too much to handle. Tang needed time to process everything.

He called in sick to work, which with his short breath and trembling voice wasn’t questioned too closely. After sending a text to Pigsy (Zhu Bajie!) so he wouldn’t wonder about his absence at the shop, Tang pulled himself onto the bed and pressed his face into the pillows.

The headache and whirling memories prevented him from falling asleep, so he tried to focus on one thing at a time.

In this cycle he was the immortal monk Tang Sanzang, sometimes also referred to as Tripitaka.

There was still just so much to unpack in that single thought it made him a bit dizzy.

Tang had never been anyone other than himself in all the timelines he’d been in. His roles may sometimes be a bit different but he had always been Tang. He had theorized once that it had something to do with how every soul was unique so he literally couldn’t be anyone else.

His breath caught as he realized the implication that brought.

Tang’s soul was unique and thus he couldn’t be anyone other than himself in the various timelines.

In this timeline, he was the monk Sanzang.

In order for him to be both himself and the famous monk simultaneously, their souls had to be exactly the same.

That meant he wasn’t the monk in just this timeline, but in all of them, including his original time.

Oh Heavens, he was the reincarnation of Tang Sanzang.

Tang gulped in several breaths of air as his mind blanked out. He needed to focus. One thing at a time.

Pigsy was Zhu Bajie and Sandy was Sha Wujing in this timeline.

After the previous revelation, this one was much less earth-shattering.

He had always known that his group of friends mirrored the original journey’s group closely. Pigsy and Sandy also being reincarnations of their historical counterparts in his own time wasn’t much of a stretch.

Tang’s breath slowed as he began to calm. What was next?

Wukong disappeared and the trio searched for him. They never found him and gave up, assuming the monkey to be dead.

This was upsetting in an entirely different way. Tang knew Wukong was still alive thanks to the events of the original timeline, and that made the guilt of giving up even worse. He’d have to fix that.

Tang sighed in relief as his thoughts finally slowed and the pain ebbed. He still had a lot to work through, but that could wait for later. Going back to sleep sounded heavenly at the moment.

He had just started to doze off when an errant fact suddenly popped into his head.

Wasn’t Tang Sanzang already a reincarnation of one of the Buddha’s original disciples, the Golden Cicada?

With a groan Tang shoved a pillow over his head and attempted to beat back the thoughts from whatever that implied about him.

He didn’t sleep very well.

----------

“So what’s this all about Tang,” Pigsy asked grumpily as he accepted a mug of tea from Sandy. It was late at night, a few days after the release of the Demon Bull King, and the three of them were meeting privately at Sandy’s ship on the scholar’s request.

Tang took a sip from his own mug as he studied the two other immortals. Had it not been for his own memories on the matter, he would have never guessed that they were two of the five companions of the legendary Journey to the West.

Zhu Bajie had been, no pun intended, pigheaded, crass, and ornery. He seemed to be contrarian whenever he felt like it and relished in trying to get one over on Sun Wukong. Tang couldn’t deny the pig demon’s ability to rise to the occasion when the chips were down however. For as much trouble Zhu Bajie seemed to cause, he’d been invaluable a fair number of times as well.

Sha Wujing lived to fight. His rage and battle-lust had definitely caused their own share of problems. Other than that, the large river demon tended to be the quiet one of the group and didn’t open up until the latter half of their journey.

Tang wasn’t blind to his own faults though.

Tripitaka, (after some meditation, Tang had decided to refer to his past self as such to avoid confusion with the name Tang Sanzang), had not been ready for such a perilous adventure. He had been too trusting of strangers, too proud to believe Wukong’s warnings. It was his own incredible naivety and insistence that he knew better that had led to the vast majority of the dangers they had found themselves in.

It was hard to reconcile who the three of them had been with who they were today, but Tang supposed five hundred years would change most people.

Pigsy still had a gruff exterior, but his desire to start trouble had long since faded. His discovery of a love for cooking had unlocked a surprising work ethic within the pig demon as well as a silent form of affection that he treated any he cared for with.

Sandy had sought out a therapist and took anger management classes. His love for battle long since extinguished, the river demon now spent his time taking care of his cats, making tea, and being supportive of his friends.

Tang was certainly not naive to the ways of the world any longer. He still did his best to treat any strangers he met with kindness and respect, but he never fully believed anyone new to be trustworthy until they showed themselves to be. He always listened to the advice of his friends as well, knowing that he didn’t know everything and those around him might have insights he did not.

Tang placed his mug down and steepled his fingers together.

“We need to tell MK, Mei, and Wukong who we really are.”

“What?!” Pigsy's angry reaction hadn’t been unexpected. They had made an agreement some time back to not reveal themselves to anyone. It was less to do with having to deal with annoying fans and more with avoiding the painful memories their identities brought with them.

If it wasn’t for the fact he had been hopping through timelines and saw first hand how hiding things from people hurt them, Tang was certain he wouldn’t have been making this decision.

“I said we-”

“I heard what you said,” Pigsy interrupted. “No way! Nuh-uh! Not happening!”

“Now hold on brother,” Sandy soothed, placing a comforting hand on the chef’s shoulder. “Let’s hear him out first.”

“This better be good,” Pigsy grumbled and slouched back into his chair.

“Which do you think will go over better? Us being honest with them about our pasts, or them discovering the truth on their own?”

“They won’t find out if we’re careful about it,” Pigsy countered.

“They will find out,” Tang stated with absolute certainty. “Whether it’s the kids putting the pieces together themselves or Wukong recognizing us, there is no doubt that this isn’t going to stay a secret for long.”

Sandy seemed thoughtful but the pig demon simply huffed and crossed his arms stubbornly.

Tang stared directly into Pigsy’s defiant eyes. Looks like he’d have to pull out the big guns.

“How do you think MK will react once he finds out that we, that you, have been keeping something this important from him?”

With a sharp intake of air Pigsy froze, his expression changing from defiance to horror. He leaned over, placing his face in his hands and groaned.

“Oh god. He’d- he’d feel like I didn’t trust him. Like I didn’t care about him enough to tell him.” The chef seemed miserable at the thought as he looked up. “Okay, we can tell the kid. Mei too, I guess.”

Tang shared a glance with Sandy. Neither had missed the exclusion of Wukong from Pigsy’s concession.

(When did he stop being the Monkey King to Tang?)

“So, uh, will we tell big brother before or after we tell MK and Mei,” Sandy asked, eyeing the pig demon warily.

Like a switch had been flipped, Pigsy’s anger returned in full force, his face twisting into a hateful scowl.

“We ain’t telling that bastard nothing,” he snarled.

“Pigsy,” Tang scolded, shocked at the amount of venom in his voice.

“No! He doesn't deserve it! Not after letting us think he was dead-” Pigsy’s voice broke slightly as he continued his rant. “Not after avoiding us for five hundred years!”

Tang took a steadying breath and pushed down the irrational emotions and hurt that wanted to agree with Pigsy’s stance. He needed to be calm if he was to convince one of his oldest friends to go through with this.

“Assumptions, my dear friend, are very dangerous things,” Tang said.

“Huh?” Pigsy looked confused at the seeming change in subject. Good, that meant he was paying attention.

“We never found Wukong after he disappeared, so we assumed he was dead. We continued to assume such for five hundred years,” Tang began, speaking clearly and with emphasis to be sure he was understood. “We now know our assumptions were wrong. Now you are falling back into the same mistake.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?!”

“You are assuming that Wukong knew we were looking for him. You are assuming he hid from us intentionally. You are assuming that he knows we’re still alive.”

“Wait, what,” Sandy exclaimed. He had seemed to be following along with the conversation up until that point and now looked alarmed.

“How do we know Wukong didn’t fall into the same trap we have,” Tang explained. “That he didn’t just assume we were gone, either through death or reincarnation? With that assumption in mind, why would he ever think to go looking for us?”

There was a tense silence as Tang let his point sink in before finishing his argument.

“We can no longer assume things. That only leads to misunderstanding and hurt feelings. If we are to learn the truth we must actively look for it. To do that we must be honest with Wukong.”

Pigsy stared at him for a few moments before sagging and plopping down into his chair.

“I’m not drunk enough for this.”

Tang breathed a sigh of relief as Sandy chided their friend about drowning your feelings in alcohol. That was the first hurdle down.

Now for the hard part.

----------

In the end they decided to tell all three of them at the same time. Just to rip the whole band-aid off in one go so to speak.

It hadn't been too hard to convince MK to get Wukong to invite them to his island. He hadn’t welcomed them into his sanctum however, so they had a picnic on the shore near the waterfall curtain instead.

The food had been quickly forgotten once they began their explanation.

MK was upset at first at having the truth withheld from him, but some heartfelt reassurances and a teary hug from Pigsy had earned them his forgiveness. He bounced back rather quickly and immediately began launching questions excitedly at the trio.

Mei had simply accepted the revelation with great enthusiasm. She had pulled her phone and began live streaming a “Q&A WITH THE JOURNEY TO THE WEST CREW!!!”. So much for anonymity.

Tang gave an amused chuckle as the young adults pestered Pigsy and Sandy as he glanced at the uncharacteristically silent Wukong.

The Monkey King could have been carved from stone with how still he was, his expression frighteningly blank.

“Wukong?” Tang swallowed nervously as his first disciple turned to him with that empty look. “Do you want to say something?”

That had apparently been the wrong thing to ask.

“Do I want to say something? Do I want to say something?!” The empty stillness was immediately replaced with restless agitation as Wukong leapt to his feet and began to pace back and forth angrily. “Oh there are a lot of somethings I want to say to you three!”

“Hey Mei? Stop streaming for a bit,” MK said quietly as he pulled her a little ways away from the group. Tang would have been extremely proud of the emotional maturity the kid was showing, but he currently had a very pissed off monkey taking up most of his attention.

“How could you do this to me?! How could you even think of leaving me to be alone for five hundred years,” Wukong shouted at them, confusion and anger and hurt pouring from every word.

“Big brother, we-” Sandy tried.

“Don’t you ‘Big Brother’ me, Sha Wujing!” The way he spat out the name like a curse made the river demon flinch. “You all abandoned me! I thought I was never going to see any of you again! Yet here you all are!” Wukong clenched his fists as he glared at the three immortals. “WHERE WERE YOU?!”

“Where were we? Where were you,” Pigsy threw the question right back angrily. “We looked for you! For a century we searched! That’s more than what you can say!”

“And then when you got tired of it you gave up! You gave up on me!”

“WE THOUGHT YOU WERE DEAD!”

“I MIGHT AS WELL HAVE BEEN!”

The anger bled out from the air at that confession and Wukong seemed to crumble into himself. Pigsy looked stunned, Sandy was nervously wringing his hands, and Tang’s stomach was twisting itself into a painful knot.

“I was alone, Bajie. My brothers were gone and I was left by myself,” Wukong trembled as he hugged himself. Tang had never seen the proud warrior look so small before. “For centuries I had nothing but my memories and grief. Sometimes I wanted to be dead. Maybe then I’d see you again.” Wukong fell to his knees as he looked up at them with tears running down his face. “I missed you all so much.”

Tang felt his own tears falling as he rushed over to embrace Wukong who began to openly sob. Sandy and Pigsy soon joined in and the four of them simply held each other as they let their pain free.

“We’re so, so sorry Wukong,” Tang said. “I promise you we would have never hurt you like this intentionally.”

“I- I know,” Wukong hiccuped, clutching to the three of them tightly.

“We won’t ever leave you alone again big brother,” Sandy vowed.

“We’re stuck with each other from now on, no matter how much we may get on each other's nerves.” Pigsy’s joke earned a choked laugh from Wukong.

Two more pairs of arms entered into their group hug as MK and Mei joined them on the ground.

“Please don’t be sad Monkey King,” MK said. “You have Mei and I now too. You aren’t alone anymore.”

Wukong just began to cry a little harder and held on a bit tighter at that.

The six of them stayed like that for some time, holding each other up in silent support and comfort.

As they sat there, Tang was a little overwhelmed by how right it felt to be holding onto the others. Love burned in his chest as he enjoyed the warmth of being this close to his family.

Oh.

Oh.

They were his family, weren’t they?

That wasn’t just another assumption. These five, across any timeline, were family to him, and he would always care for them as such.

Any lingering doubts about being Tripitaka melted away. It didn’t really matter who he was or had been in the past. All that mattered was the real love he felt for these people that were precious to him.

As long as he had that, he could overcome anything else that came his way.

----------

You didn’t think I would write a Tang-centric fic and NOT have him be Tripitaka did you? It was inevitable honestly.

I'm not sure if I characterized Sha Wujing correctly here, but Sandy canonically went to anger management so I made some (hehe) assumptions.

Speaking of! Count how many assumptions are made in this chapter! There might be more than you think~

The story referenced in this chapter is Tang’s Time Adventure by Poddlebud. It’s a fun little romp with a unique ship. It’s a shame we didn’t get to see the conclusion played out here…

Until next time!

[bealittleimprobable]

Roswell, New Mexico: Max and healing

Subtitle: “Can’t you just go stab a cactus?”

So obviously Michael has the most scope to experiment with his powers - you can practice telekinesis by going out into the desert and throwing a hacky sack around, no ethical issues involved. Even if it goes wrong you just get hit with a toy, not the end of the world.

But something I keep thinking with Max - obviously he can’t practice on people. Even if you had someone volunteering to have a minor injury there’s too much risk of harming them if the healing went wrong. Animal experimentation would be flat out unethical.

But what about plants? I don’t know if it would work but honestly, Roswell, New Mexico is not a hard science sci-fi show so probably never going to know unless it’s a plot point. But my first thought when they were talking about using/developing their powers was, could he heal plants? Because if it just works on repairing “living things”, go get a tray of succulents with big leaves, start making little slices, and see if you can put them back together again. If it all goes horribly wrong then at worst you’re out a couple of dollars and no-one was harmed.

If it all goes well, you can go out into the desert and bother some cacti.

[lordkingsmith]

Ah-I have been tagged twice it seems. I’ll do two, then lol.

For Augment’s tag I’ll do Waylon “Hutch” Hutcher from the follow up to an odd dream and something I am hesitantly planning on working on. For skyland’s I’ll do Alphie Oliver, as Skye loved Alphie’s first version Ethan and I think it’d be fun 😁😁

Waylon “Hutch” Hutcher:

Would y’all stop accusing me of wanting to civilize him? I’m an electrician not a Christian

Ma’am the only gods to worry about are the opinions of the dead or disappeared

I understand pyromania is a mental illness. I understand I should not enable my brother’s mania. However, counterpoint; it’s funny when the Autumn King’s afraid of him-and I get to toast marshmallows

Jiminy Christmas Toast why am I the one having to fight the prince?

…you know…your dad using the name you secretly gave yourself is one hell of a way to find out I talk in my sleep. And I am sorry about it.

Every time I go to that manor all I wanna do is fit it with electricity. I realize that’s not the point going but maybe once this is done I’ll do it to the abandoned version in the human world

I’m not petty I’m pragmatic. Luckily for me sometimes they cross over

It’s funny. Read Watership Down as a kid and became afraid of rabbits. Now come to find out I am a rabbit. If one of us gains the ability to prophesi just do me a favor and shoot me. It’s better than the alternatives

Listen I’ve learned a lot about myself in that haunted murder forest and no I don’t want to examine any of it

-singing to himself- soup soup soup I love soup it’s so good, leek and potato and bacon soup give me soup-

I do not want to be swallowed by a bog! First it’s fine but then you realize you’re cold and wet and there’s crawly things in your ears. You can’t move, can’t breathe, and you learn the difference between peace and acceptance. Yes the prince had to fish me out of the bog. No I don’t want to talk about it

Ma hasn’t smiled since the day she had to identify dad in the morgue. If getting her long lost brother back makes her smile again fuck it. I’m going to do it.

…is it ethical to threaten your supernatural grandma with a gun? I’m asking for a friend

Prince, no offense, but all things considered no I don’t want to eat your rabbit jerky. I’m sure it’s fantastic but I feel you can see the conflict here.

My aunt sent my sister through two trees…I support women’s rights and wrongs yada yada, I’m glad every woman in my family is a badass powerhouse yada yada- now I need to check Maev didn’t break Maeve’s back-fuck me with a cactus this is confusing

Alphie Oliver

Alright team, let’s save Christmas!

…please don’t break into the high school to get Olympius’ son

Wow! I don’t care!

…this is what we call an inside thought. As in, keep that thought inside your head. Please never ever say that to me again

I have never looked at a recipe baking a cake and I’m honestly too set in my ways to start now

Chloe if I have to tell my dad and granddad I’m a power ranger and go against Zordon, you have to tell uncle Bulk and Aunt Kim first. Yea, yea I thought so.

I understand I’m now a blue and thus a problem solver. Hit thing very hard with hammer till it stops attacking is, in fact, solving a problem! It makes new problems but it is solving at least one!

I have so many questions. I’m not stupid enough to ask them, but I do have the questions

I don’t think the Grid cares who’s making power ranger teams. I think it just likes generating power rangers to watch them smash-wait-no not like that-

I don’t want to play truth or dare with anyone I know. It always become a callout. ‘Alphie have you slept’ ‘Alphie I dare you to sleep’ ‘Alphie did you eat anything today. Alphie I dare you to eat anything other than a boba tea’ I hate playing that game.

I was babysat by an overachieving vampire while my parents got divorced. I am astonishingly good with bizarre situations. Plus, I’m being babysat by the same overachieving vampire. I promise, I’m actually fine.

Living on the moon sucks but Rito’s chill

I want to go home. I just don’t want to face the disappointment

I’m about ready to ask Phineas how his parents got together. It’ll give me a headache but I’ll try anything to get Milo to realize I like him

Huh. I wish I didn’t know that still but alright. Cool.

And I tag: @uccelletto-di-kokuyo @wreyeder-wreyedine @the-fab-fox @watermeezer @shepardsherd and anyone who wants to

OC in 15 (or less)

I was tagged by @ajgrey9647 to play this game. Thanks for the tag!

Rules: Share 15 or fewer lines of dialogue from an OC, ideally lines that capture the character/personality/vibe of the OC. Bonus points for just using the dialogue without other details about the scene, but you're free to include those as well!

Ahhhhhh-hah-hah-haaaaah.... This is a trick, because I don't really have a solid configuration of an actual original character. BUT, I decided to play because, incidentally, it works for Alternate Universe versions of characters I'm working on in fandom. So for this go around, I think I'll play up the version of Adam Park in the 'all our injuries rhyme' series I'm working on. Because he is NOT like the Adam Park of the Prime Universe and a bit more of the simple sentry in the Coinless Universe as we know it. This Adam has a bond with this AU's version of Skull that never would happen anywhere else. Second Green Adam Park:

"If I love you, I cook. Simple as that."

Looking directly at Trini, her terrified in the face of his solemn wrath, "Are you satisfied now?"

"I've gotten to the point that I could probably ride or deepthroat a baseball bat with no ill effect, yeah."

With soft eyes as Rocky and Aisha suddenly look ashamed of themselves, "My wife, child, and the whole of my family are dead. They know everything now."

"Exactly one person ever asked to leave 8th Division to be granted a promotion to Captain," a curl of the lip, amused without pleasure, "Because he thinks of this as a Career."

To Jason, not so coinless anymore, "I no more delight in wearing Green than you do in wearing White; but at least White didn't need purification through blood, just words. Bit of a theme with this little fucker."

With nostalgia, staring off into rain falling down at the top of the Command Center, "Leftover bread pancakes. Those and a loaf of oatmeal honey bread and a baked apple," inhales a drag of the blunt he nicked, "First time I actually wanted to suck a cock in a decade."

"And that is what forgiveness sounds like."

With deep, deep, deep sarcasm, complete with the hand signs, "Naaaaaaaaaaaaamaste."

"I'm okay on the floor."

And I think I will gently tag: @lordkingsmith @skyland2703 @koragg1 @estel-eruantien and wrapping right back around to @ajgrey9647 (I cheated, you can too. You can choose an OC or a favored character.)

[things-that-make-me-slytherin]

Non-Typical Slytherins

So I was taking a break from study, going through my inbox to see if I had already answered anything sitting there and I saw quite a few asks/submissions where my lovely little snakes are doubting themselves as Slytherins bc of their personality, star sign, patronuses, MBTI type, Ilvermorny house etc

The stereotypical Slytherins, the images that pop into peoples heads when they think of what a Slytherin is, is actually the minority of Slytherins in my opinion.

Take me for example, I am a Slytherin, Pisces, Pukwudgie, have a very strong sense of justice, morals, ethics. I am very caring, my jobs have usually been centred around helping people. In my pharmacy retail jobs my goal was to help people, when they came in complaining of stress related symptoms I would talk to them about fixing/managing their symptoms such as stress levels, acne/skin problems, trouble sleeping, self care - attacking the root of the problem while dealing with the symptoms. As a legal assistant I was driven by wanting to help people out with something that is usually extremely stressful and something out of their field of knowledge. Lawyers have a saying that we aren’t just our clients legal advocate, but their therapist and support person all at once.

On the other hand I am also very judgemental (I’m working on it), sassy, bitchy can be an asshole. It’s kind of like saying you can only like one fashion style or one type of cuisine. Very rarely do people fit into neat little boxes.

BUT NO ONE CAN TELL YOU WHO YOU ARE OR ARE NOT, so kindly tell them to go sit on a cactus.

People seem to forget that we aren’t necessarily what our house values are, that’s more Ilvermorny. We are sorted into our houses based primarily off what we value or aspire to be, that doesn’t mean that we automatically are those traits. It also doesn’t mean that we are all of our house traits. Because Crabbe and Goyle never came across as ambitious or cunning. 

Furthermore, these traits and values aren’t going to come across in the same way. Let’s take two non Slytherins in the HP world for example; my lovely Newt Scamander and Jacob Kowalski. Jacob’s ambition is to open up a bakery, Newt’s ambition is to save and care for magical creatures. They are completely different, someone’s greatest ambition could be to start a family, or graduate from school whereas another’s greatest ambition could be to get into politics, or medicine to develop a cure for some disease. Looking at these ambitions, you automatically place them along a scale at different places. But they are all ambitions.

For example, we can admire fraternity and traditionalism but these values don’t always mesh with others such as self-preservation or ambition.

What we value does however play a role in determining how we behave and make choices.

Most overlook that all of the Hogwarts houses are loyal, it just presents in different ways:

Gryffindors: loyal to house and ideals and morals

Ravenclaws: loyal to their passions, facts and hubris

Hufflepuffs: loyal to those they choose, loyal to their morals and ethics

Slytherins: loyal to their house and family, chosen or birth, loyal to themselves

Slytherins aren’t all massive assholes/bitches, moody and snarky and sassy. Just like Hufflepuffs aren’t all innocent little cinnamon rolls and can be just as snarky, moody and bitchy as anyone. Zacharias Smith anyone??? Gryffindors are not always chivalrous, brave and righteous - Peter Pettigrew. Ravenclaws aren’t all uptight swots who only care about knowledge or adhering to one school of thought, Luna Lovegood.

Slytherins have their own morals, ethic codes. We actually have a strong sense of fairness and sense of honour. It just may not marry up with other peoples, which is normal as a human being. We also tend to have the ability to set aside our own beliefs if it is in the way of what is right or needs to be done.

A lot of people tend to forget that others are just as complex and multi-faceted as they themselves are, which means that they tend to say “thats not right they dont go together” when they come across something that doesn't fit their own perception, which unless has been given thought is usually very shallow and takes in popular opinion and stereotypes.

They also forget that JK Rowling has her own biases which show in her writing. They also forget that it didn’t suit her story to show depth and diversity in the four houses. The stereotypes are a literary device.

So please be your unique selfs, fuck what others say and what the stereotypes are. You don’t have to act like others who fall under some same “label” as you, you were sorted into whichever house for a reason. Be a pastel loving, soft little cinnamon roll Slytherin or a badass bad bitch or whatever you choose to be. It doesn’t make you any more or any less of a Slytherin (Or Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff or Gryffindor or what have you.)

You are wonderful as you are, there is no other who can be who you are ad life would be incredibly boring if we were all the same.

[the-iron-orchid]

Hey jsyk dollskill is a pretty ethically dubious site

https://gritdaily-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/gritdaily.com/dolls-kill-boycott/amp/?amp_gsa=1&amp_js_v=a6&usqp=mq331AQKKAFQArABIIACAw%3D%3D#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=16405806565854&csi=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fgritdaily.com%2Fdolls-kill-boycott%2F

No judgement I know you can't keep up with all the info on these things but I thought you'd want to know

Sonofabitch. 😡 Well, thanks for letting me know! Sadly I can't return them now, but fuck those guys with a cactus backward, there's other places to get 6-inch platform heels in the future.

[yakumtsaki]

AITA for calling my boyfriend the Green Lantern? posted by u/phiofthewild

The other day there was a power outage here and my bf immediately found a flashlight. I joked ‘thank god for Green Lantern’ and laughed for a full minute. Now he’s offended and not talking to me. I thought it was hilarious. AITA?

Edit: I should had specified my bf is an alien and literally green, he didn’t just hate the Green Lantern movie. 

AITA for getting offended that my gf called me the Green Lantern? posted by u/itsnoteasybeinggreen

My gf called me the Green Lantern and it really hurt my feelings (I’m green). She says I should learn to take a joke but I’m really upset and I think she’s being offensive. AITA?

AITA for sabotaging my friends’ relationship? posted by u/cockblockingthrowaway

Throwaway because my friends know my account, so I (16M) have had a crush on my friend (16F) since elementary school but she’s been dating my other friend (16M) for about a year and it’s been terrible. Terrible for me I mean, their relationship is pretty solid unfortunately.

So lately I’ve gotten into the habit of cockblocking them whenever possible and it’s possible all the time because I can’t stress enough how little I do all day. I invite myself to their dates or show up from behind a cactus unannounced and my friend is all like ‘dude we didn’t invite you’ and I’m like ‘WOW RUDE.’ Once there I make up a family crisis and whine about it for hours (my record is 3 hours 40 minutes) to kill the mood, it works every time.

Lately they’ve been having problems and dumb arguments (they don’t seem to get it’s because of me stopping them from spending any time together lol) and I couldn’t be happier about it. But my brother (11M, super ethical brat) realized what I was doing and told me I’m being manipulative and cringe. AITA?

[jasontoddiefor]

Shared custody of this baby? @alabasterswriting :D

Kath'resi Ahrarak didn’t know what exactly to expect when his Master had said they were going to host two people for dinner tonight. He certainly hasn’t expected his Master to start cooking the complicated dishes from his homeplanet that had to be stirred for hours. They didn’t eat those too often because they were so tedious to prepare, but Kath’resi always enjoyed them. The softly cooked violet puree didn’t look like much, honestly, but it was as sweet as the fruits it was made from.

“Who’s coming over today, Master?” Kath’resi asked as a dipped his finger into the mush, taste-testing it.

Feemor only glanced at him in amusement, though his brow was creased in worry.

“My brother Padawan and his Padawan.”

Kath’resi’s eyes widened. He hadn’t known that their lineage had side branches! He had always thought it was just him, his older sister and their Master. Of course Kath’resi knew that wasn’t the case, but it had definitely felt like it. He should ask Vatnem whether she had known of this once she actually came back from her mission. It had always been almost a full year since he had last seen her, eight month since he had last spoken to her.

“Who’s your brother Padawan?” Kath’resi asked as he added even more pepper to their soup. His Master had said they should have at least once spicy dish. He wondered whether other members of their lineage preferred spicy food. Kath’resi was much more fond of sweets.

“My Master’s last Padawan, Obi-Wan Kenobi,” Feemor replied.

“What!?” Kath’resi exclaimed, but before Feemor could elaborate, the doorbell to their apartment rang.

“Kath’resi, can you get it?” Feemor asked.

“Sure!”

He didn’t have to be asked twice. Obi-Wan Kenobi, the Sith slayer himself, was a part of their lineage? Kath’resi couldn’t wait to tell his friends about it. He silently wondered whether he could ask Obi-Wan for training. Feemor was brilliant with a lighsaber, but Kath’resi wasn’t sure his style suited him as well. He liked faced-paced duels. Of course, all his teachers had advised against settling on one style yet, but Kath’resi thought he should.

He wasn’t sure what to expect when he opened the door, but a small tiny blond kid holding a colorful cactus wasn’t it. That must be Obi-Wan’s Padawan then. Anakin... something. He wasn’t too sure on his name. Kath’resi looked up and indeed, Obi-Wan Kenobi was standing behind his student. He didn’t look all that remarkable. In fact, he actually looked pretty tired, much like Kath’resi when he was up late studying for that super boring Introduction to Mid Rim Ethics II exam he had already fluncted two times and would likely also fail to pass in his third attempt.

“Knight Kenobi, Padawan, it’s nice to meet you,” Kath’resi said and let them inside.

“Thank you very much, Padawan Ahrarak,” Obi-Wan said. Anakin was a little slower to return the greeting.

The kid was honestly kind of cute, all wide-eyed staring at him like he was cool. One of his older friends’ lineage had recently gained a shiny new Initiate. They were eleven and now his friend wouldn’t shut up about how adorable they were. Anakin was part of Kath’resi’s lineage now, he supposed he should show the boy the ropes. After their two guests had greeted Feemor as well, Kath’resi invited Anakin to his room. The cactus he had been holding had been placed on the living room table and the adults were busy discussing something. Feemor was acting all Masterly worried, fussing as if Obi-Wan was a Padawan and not a Knight. Then again he was around Vatnem’s age and nobody would trust her with a Padawan yet.

“You have a lot of pencils,” Anakin said, pointing to the many pencil holders.

“Oh, yeah.” Kath’resi grinned. “I draw a lot in my free time. My biggest painting is even displayed back in the art rooms!”

Anakin frowned. “What art rooms?”

Kath’resi was about to shoot back a funny reply, but stopped himself in the last second. Anakin wasn’t from the temple, he had been only been here for three months? The temple was big. He probably really didn’t know about the art rooms.

“They are near the creché,” Kath’resi replied. “I can show you later if you want! They’re my favorite rooms in the whole temple, there’s nothing better.”

Anakin smiled shyly. Kath’resi’s friends had been absolutely right. Having a youngling was the best. “Thank you.”

“No problem! What are your favorite rooms in the temple so far?”

“The greenhouses,” Anakin blurted out immediately. “There are so many flowers and plants. I’ve never seen that many before! And they all get watered!”

“Yeah,” Kath’resi agreed. “They’re pretty cool.”

Feemor better not blow their dinner by fussing too much about Obi-Wan and scaring him away. Kath’resi was having the time of his life with his new cousin. Anakin was fun, Kath’resi already knew this was the beginning of a beautiful friendship.