#FAMILY is what was the crucial component | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

mononijikayu · 6 months ago

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i wish— kamo choso.

He saw you both grow old together, each wrinkle etched into your faces telling stories of laughter, shared wisdom, and the occasional tears. Sitting together on a porch, watching the sun set into the ocean, you leaned against him, your hair silvered with age, eyes still bright with the love and fierce determination that defined you. There was satisfaction, there was acceptance. There was happiness.

Genre: Culling Games Arc to Shibuya Showdown Arc, 2018;

Warning/s: Emotional Trauma, Character Death, Angst, Romance, Kissing, Tragedy, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Canonical Character Death, Emotional Purging, Unresolved Tension, Inner Turmoil, Flashbacks, Love and Loss, Slow Burn, Closure, Depiction of Depression, Depiction of Grief, Depiction of Physical Touch, Mention of Death, Mention of Killing, Mention of Harm, Immortality, Emotional Support, Sibling Bond, Sacrifice, Supernatural Elements, Family Themes, Deep Conversations, Existential Themes, Magical Realism;

masterlist

listen: i wish by renee rapp

note: i disappeared because my internet died for a bit but i wrote this when i got service and got tagged into twitter posts about the new jjk leaks and cried so bad and wrote this. i'm posting this because im not suffering alone!!! i love you choso, you'll always be the best brother and human in the world :((((

YOU WERE A CHANGE OF PACE IN CHOSO’S LIFE. Within the enigmatic depths of the Tombs of the Star, Choso came to a profound realization about the nature of your existence. Here, amidst the swirling arcane energies that filled this sacred space, you existed in a symbiotic relationship with the very fabric of the universe. You shared a unique duality with your sibling, Tengen. You were so similar and yet so different — you fit together, almost like two sides of one coin. Choso had always believed his life, devoted entirely to the love and protection of his siblings, was an exceptional calling. Yet, encountering you, he began to see that he was not as unique as he had once thought. In fact, he considered that perhaps your dedication surpassed even his own.

Your immortality, though less celebrated than Tengen's, was just as essential. It underscored a truth often overlooked: what is an eternal life without a companion, without that shared blood and bond? Your unheralded but pivotal role sustained not just the life but the spirit of the Tombs through countless ages, making you an integral thread in the continuity of existence itself.

Your relationship with Tengen was unique, perhaps the only one they truly had. It was easy to see how it was a core part of your existence to serve Tengen. While Tengen wielded overt power, your own strength was in your subtle. Yours was gentle, tenderness — the care of a loving and devoted sibling.

Your days repeated the same. You often were the one reminding Tengen to sleep and rest. You often brought Tengen their meals. At times you sit days on end entertaining Tengen with conversation. At times you sang to them, songs so old that Choso could not make sense of the words anymore. Day in and day out, Choso saw how you lived for Tengen. How you breathe every day to keep Tengen. Choso had felt like he understood you in that sense. He was, after all, an older brother. What you did for Tengen, he had done for his siblings. He wanted to do it for Yuuji too.

Yuki told him that you were the crucial component for maintaining the equilibrium of the world. Keeping you alive means keeping Tengen alive and well. Keeping you both alive and well means that Choso can also do well by Yuuji. That was all that mattered, he likes to think. And so, he took his task seriously. He was with you, day in and day out. Because if you didn’t exist, there is nothing for Tengen but lonesomeness. Choso didn’t know how Yuki knew all of this about you, but he thinks it's better not to ask.

Days melded into each other under the starlit dome of the chamber, and in those seemingly fleeting moments, your bond with Choso deepened. Choso doesn’t really talk that much, he only did when people talked to him. But your words were often expressed. You often wander to dreams—whispers about what it might mean to live a truly human life, to age, to experience the mundane. You smiled each and every time, ever so warmly. In these moments, Choso is reminded how you truly are. He often gets reminded of his mother. You both have the same warmth, he thinks.

By the tranquil pond fringed with burgeoning water lilies, you and Choso found yourselves in a peaceful reprieve from the routine duties that governed your immortal lives. The soft ripple of water under your fingers created gentle disturbances that set the floating blossoms adrift. Choso, often a man of few words, sat beside you, his gaze occasionally following the serene movements of the lilies.

"I don't think I'm doing enough for Tengen-sama," you whispered to him, your voice laced with uncertainty and a touch of despair.

"Why do you think so?" Choso asked, his features furrowing with concern as he raised an eyebrow at you.

You sighed, feeling the weight of your worries press down on you. "Tengen-sama seems so stressed lately. And I... I don't think I've done enough to help with it." The admission felt heavy on your tongue, a confession of perceived inadequacy. "But I don't think they need me. I don't think I'm powerful enough to... to help them the way they need me to."

Your words hung in the air, a testament to the inner conflict that had been gnawing at you. It wasn't just about being useful or fulfilling a role; it was about the fear of not being enough for someone who mattered immensely to you. The idea that perhaps your presence wasn't as vital as you hoped was a quiet torment that echoed the struggles you faced in your eternal existence beside Tengen. Choso watched you carefully, his expression softening as he processed your words.

“You know,” Choso began thoughtfully, choosing his words with care, “power isn't just about the ability to perform grandiose acts or wield visible strength. Sometimes, the truest form of power lies in our presence, in the steadfast support we offer.”

He paused, ensuring he had your full attention. “Tengen-sama carries burdens we can scarcely imagine, and while you may feel that your support isn't changing anything, it could very well be the anchor that keeps them steady. Being there, being constant—that's a power in its own right.”

Choso's voice was gentle yet firm, trying to uplift your spirits. “And remember, it’s not about being indispensable but about being present. You give them someone to rely on, someone who understands them deeply. That’s not a small thing.”

He reached out, placing a reassuring hand on your shoulder. “You might feel that you're not doing enough, but perhaps for Tengen-sama, your continued presence and your care are exactly what they need. It's easy to overlook the value of simply being there, especially when you are used to thinking in terms of more direct actions.”

Taking in his words, you nodded slowly, the tension in your shoulders easing slightly. The idea that your value might not always be measurable in the conventional senses of power and strength, but rather in less tangible, yet equally significant ways, offered a new perspective. Choso's reassurance provided a comforting reminder of your role and importance in Tengen's life—not as a savior or a hero, but as a consistent source of support and understanding.

"You always seem so thoughtful," you remarked, smiling as you continued to play with the water, sending another lily spinning gently. "Tell me, Choso, what is it that you hope for in life? Beyond our duties here, what dreams do you carry? What do you wish for?”

Choso looked at the water before him, his expression reflective. "My life... it's bound to my brother, Yuuji. I want to do right by him, protect him, and ensure he can live fully. In many ways, I live for him."

Your laughter, light and understanding, echoed softly around the pond. "I understand that more than you might think. My existence, too, seems entirely woven around Tengen. I live for them, through them almost." Your smile faded slightly into a more contemplative expression. "But do you ever wonder, Choso, if it's wrong to want something beyond that? To live a life that explores the world beyond just being someone's shadow?”

Choso turned to you, his eyes narrowing slightly in thought. "It's a difficult question. Duty and love bind us, but it's human to crave understanding of the world, to experience it in all its breadth."

"Yes, it is human," you agreed, picking a lily from the water and examining its intricate petals. "And sometimes, I find myself dreaming of a life where I can wander freely, see the worlds beyond these walls, learn and love and perhaps even make mistakes. Just live, not as an immortal bound to duty, but simply as a person."

Choso nodded slowly, his usual reticence giving way to a more engaged demeanor. "Those dreams... they're not wrong. They're part of what makes us more than just guardians or siblings. They make us whole. And perhaps, in dreaming, we find parts of ourselves that duty alone could never reveal."

Your eyes met his, and in that moment, a shared understanding passed between you. Both of you were bound by immense responsibilities, yet within each of you stirred the universal desire to experience life beyond the predefined roles you occupied.

"Maybe, one day, we will explore those dreams," you suggested softly, a hopeful tone threading through your words.

"Maybe," Choso agreed, a rare smile breaking across his face. "And perhaps, in exploring them, we'll bring something back that can enrich the lives we dedicate to those we protect."

The time you spent together in the secluded spaces of the Star Chamber, amid ancient enigmas and whispers of immortality, became sacred. As you shared your deepest dreams and quiet confessions, the bond between you and Choso deepened, moving beyond mere companionship to something richer and more profound. This connection, once unspoken and tentative, blossomed with the ease of a well-nurtured bloom into a tender love.

Amidst the echo of your laughter, which bubbled up like a clear spring in the tranquil silence, and his thoughtful nods, a rhythm developed—an unspoken language of understanding and empathy that only you two could comprehend. Choso, often so guarded and stoic, found in you a solace that allowed him to express thoughts and feelings that he typically cloistered away from the world.

One evening, as twilight draped its violet shroud over the chamber, you both found yourselves by the reflective pool that mirrored the ever-changing sky. The water's surface danced with the light of the first stars, mirroring the flicker of possibilities that your conversations had awakened.

“You know,” you started, breaking the comfortable silence, “I never imagined that someone could understand this part of my life. The part that’s tangled up in duty and care, yet also yearns for something more… something deeply personal.”

Choso looked at you, his usual reserve softened by the topic at hand. “I feel the same. We’re bound by our roles, our responsibilities to those we protect. But speaking to you about dreams, about life beyond our duties, it’s… it’s freeing.” His voice, usually so guarded, carried a hint of wonder, reflecting his own surprise at this newfound openness. “It feels….daring……and human.”

Your laughter, light and genuine, echoed around the natural alcove. “Freeing, yes, and a bit daring too. Being human, in this way — it's hard.”

He smiled, a rare, full smile that reached his eyes. “Daring, but worthwhile. To dream with you, it makes those dreams feel possible, as if they could be more than just whispers in the dark.”

“You make them feel possible for me too,” you admitted, allowing yourself to reflect on the emotional landscape that had unfolded between you. “Before this, my dreams felt like distant stars—beautiful but untouchable. Now, they seem closer, within reach.”

Choso reached out, his hand brushing against yours, a tentative but intentional touch. “Maybe that’s what happens when dreams are shared. They grow, they take on a life of their own. They become something we can both reach towards.”

The simplicity of the touch sent a warmth through you, grounding the moment in something tangible. “And I’m grateful for that. For you,” you added, your voice soft but earnest.

He nodded, his hand gently squeezing yours. “And I am grateful for you. For this peace we’ve found in each other, amidst all the chaos of our existences. It’s a rare gift.”

The serenity that you and Choso had cultivated, a rare respite from the endless cycle of duty and vigilance, was not destined to last. In the realms where celestial fates intertwined, peace was but a fleeting shadow, easily dispelled by the stirrings of chaos. Such disturbance came in the form of Kenjaku, a figure synonymous with disruption and disorder. His intrusion into the sacred confines of the Tombs of the Star was not just a breach of sanctuary; it was a direct assault on the balance you had sworn to uphold.

Kenjaku's arrival tore through the calm like a tempest, disrupting the harmony you had momentarily savored. His motives were clear and malignantly aligned against Tengen's continued influence and your protective stance. With the air crackling with tension and the fabric of reality bending under the weight of Kenjaku’s dark ambitions, you revealed a power kept hidden from the prying eyes of foes and allies alike.

Your mastery over temporal loops, a rare and intricate skill, allowed you to manipulate the threads of time. This ability was not about mere manipulation of moments; it was about reshaping events within confined bursts, creating pockets of altered realities where outcomes could be rewritten, and destinies briefly redirected.

As you confronted Kenjaku, your hands moved with deliberate motions, weaving invisible patterns in the air that pulled at the seams of time. With each gesture, you unraveled the immediate future, crafting short sequences where different possibilities played out in rapid succession. This was not just a display of raw power but a strategic orchestration of time itself, bending the inevitable towards a reality where balance could be restored.

As Kenjaku's menacing form advanced, the air thick with the threat of destruction, you and Choso stood side by side, united against the looming chaos. The battle's intensity escalated rapidly, with the forces of disorder clashing against the shields of time and duty you both upheld. Yet, amidst the swirling energies and the relentless advance of Kenjaku, you caught sight of the peril that Choso was about to face—a risk you could never allow to come to fruition.

Choso, sensing your sudden shift in focus, turned to you, his expression a mix of concern and determination. "What are you planning?" he asked, his voice tight with worry. He had come to understand you well enough to know when you were about to make a critical decision.

"I need to protect you," you replied, your voice resolute yet heavy with the burden of what you were about to do. "I can create a time loop, a place where you can be safe, where none of this can touch you."

Choso's eyes widened, realization dawning. "No, wait—you can't! What about you? We fight together, remember? You can't just send me away, not like this."

You reached out, grasping his hand firmly, imparting a finality that was both reassuring and heartbreaking. "Listen to me, Choso. This isn’t just about fighting together; it's about ensuring that at least one of us can survive this, and can continue to make a difference. I can manage this, but I need to know you're safe."

"But sacrificing yourself isn't the answer!" Choso protested, his voice rising with emotion. "There has to be another way. We can wait for Yuki; she might have a solution."

"Waiting could be too late," you insisted, your eyes scanning the battlefield, where the fabric of reality seemed increasingly unstable. "I've made my decision. This is the only way I know you'll be truly safe."

With a heavy heart and a sense of urgency, you began the incantation, the ancient words of time magic flowing from your lips. Choso tried to pull away, to argue further, but the spell was already weaving its complex, protective lattice around him.

"I'm doing this because I care, Choso," you said, your voice softening. "In that loop, you'll have peace, and we'll have a lifetime together, even if it's not real. Please, live a full life there, for both of us."

As the last syllables of your spell wove through the air, reality for Choso began to shift, the edges of the present blurring as a new world, shaped by your heartfelt wishes, took form around him. The chaos of battle, the tension of impending doom—all melted away, replaced by the soothing tranquility of a life envisioned with love and hope.

In this carefully crafted reality, Choso found himself in an idyllic version of the world he knew, a place untouched by the scars of conflict or the weight of eternal duty. There, the sun seemed brighter, and the air held the fresh promise of peace. By his side was you, free from the constraints of your immortal obligations, embodying the life you both could have cherished together.

Together, you walked hand in hand towards the sea, the vast expanse of water stretching endlessly before you, its surface glinting under the sun like scattered diamonds. The scene was picturesque, almost too perfect, as if it had leaped from the pages of a forgotten fairytale where every ending was happy, and every heartache healed.

In this serene world, you both raised a family—a dream so distant in your real lives, now vividly alive in this temporal sanctuary. Yuuji and Tengen, often subjects of your protective instincts, appeared not as burdens to be guarded but as children laughing in the garden, playing with others who called you their parent. The simplicity of this life, the joyous normalcy, was a stark contrast to the complexities you had both known.

As years rolled by in this looped reality, unburdened by the passage of time as it would affect the mortal world, Choso experienced every stage of a shared human life. From the vigorous days of youth spent exploring the world with you, through the tender moments of raising children, to the serene acceptance of age, each phase was a gift—a series of moments wrapped in the warmth of enduring love.

Even as this life was but a fabrication, a temporal construct meant to protect and console, for Choso, it felt undeniably real. He lived each day fully, the memories etched into his heart as if they were carved from the very essence of life itself.

And as the spell reached its inevitable conclusion, with the loop designed to eventually unwind, Choso was left with the imprint of a lifetime spent in blissful peace—a stark contrast to the destiny he had been plucked from, and a poignant reminder of what could have been. This was your final gift to him: not just safety, but a glimpse of a life filled with unbridled humanity. It was joy, love, and the fulfillment of dreams that the real world could never have accommodated.

"Remember me, and live well," were your final whispered words that echoed in the looping reality, even as you turned back to face Kenjaku alone, ready to sacrifice your chance at peace for the safety of the world and the brother you had come to love.

Outside the time loop, the confrontation with Kenjaku intensified as you steeled yourself for the final stand. The environment crackled with volatile energy, the very air charged with the raw power of clashing wills. Kenjaku, recognizing the depth of your determination, halted his advance, his eyes narrowing as he assessed the situation.

“You think to defy me with such feeble tricks?” Kenjaku’s voice was cold, dripping with disdain as he spoke. His stance was predatory, a hunter cornering his prey.

“You underestimate the power of sacrifice,” you replied, your voice steady despite the growing storm of power swirling around you. “This isn’t about tricks or defiance. It’s about protecting what matters.”

Kenjaku laughed, a sound devoid of any humor. “Sacrifice? You would throw away your eternal life, for what? These fleeting mortals? This doomed realm?”

“It’s because this realm and its people are worth fighting for,” you asserted, your resolve hardening. “You may crave power, Kenjaku, but you’ve forgotten the strength found in selflessness. I haven’t.”

“You’re a fool then,” Kenjaku sneered, stepping closer, the ground beneath his feet darkening with corrupt energy. “To throw away immortality for foolish mortals is the height of folly.”

“Perhaps,” you conceded, a sad smile playing on your lips as you prepared the final incantation. “But it’s my choice to make. And I choose them. I choose love and life, even if it’s not my own.”

With that declaration, you unleashed the full breadth of your temporal abilities. Time around Kenjaku began to distort, warping and weaving into complex patterns that ensnared him in an intricate loop of your making. His movements slowed as the layers of temporal magic constricted, binding him with chains stronger than any physical restraint.

Kenjaku roared in frustration, his voice echoing across the chamber as he struggled against the relentless force of your cursed technique. “You cannot hold me forever! You’ll break long before I do!”

“Maybe,” you whispered, feeling the strain of your powers consuming your essence. “But we’ll win, Kenjaku. One way or another.”

As the temporal bindings tightened, you felt your life force ebbing away, each moment drawing you closer to the end. With a final look at the world you were giving up, you poured the last of your energy into the spell, cementing it with the ultimate sacrifice.

“See you in another life, Choso.” you murmured, a tear tracing down your cheek as you faced the end with a quiet dignity. The last of your vision faded just as Kenjaku’s form started to battle against your power. You didn’t know if you’ll be successful in the end, but it didn’t matter. It bought time. It bought time for Tengen-sama to leave. It bought time for Yuki to come for Choso. It bought time for Choso. It was more than enough. That’s all that matters. “Tell me all about it then.”

In the quiet aftermath, the cacophony of battle faded, replaced by a resonant stillness that seemed to permeate the very walls of the Star Chamber. The ferocity that had surged through the area moments before now seemed like a distant echo, a turbulent memory overshadowed by the magnitude of your sacrifice.

Choso, emerging from the temporal loop, was abruptly returned to a reality far grimmer than the one he had lived in his dream-like existence. The serene life he had known with you, filled with laughter, love, and the gentle aging of shared days, dissipated like mist at dawn. Yet, the weight of those memories clung to him, a tapestry of joy and sorrow woven into his being. Tears streamed down his face as the full impact of his loss, of the life that could never truly be, settled upon his shoulders.

Amidst his reeling senses, Yuki’s voice reached out to him, a tether pulling him back from the brink of despair. He could hear Kenjaku too, the sounds of struggle as the villain fought against the temporal bonds you had sacrificed yourself to forge. The air was thick with the aftermath of conflict, with the poignant heaviness of humanity—loss, grief, yearning, joy, love. These emotions, so deeply human, washed over him repeatedly, each wave a reminder of the life he had momentarily lived and lost.

Yet, Choso stood resolute amidst it all. He bore the weight of these emotions not just as remnants of a spell-crafted illusion, but as the real and enduring aspects of the human condition. He carried them because they were now part of him, imprinted on his soul by the experiences you had given him. And he carried them because that’s what you would have wanted. In bearing these memories, in allowing them to shape his path forward, he honored your sacrifice, turning profound loss into a source of unyielding strength.

That bleak winter day, as Shinjuku was engulfed in flames, Choso found himself at the precipice of his own demise. Engulfed in a brutal confrontation, he struggled valiantly to shield Yuuji from the malevolent Sukuna, whose dark intent was manifest in the fierce and unyielding fire around them. But as the flames consumed not only his physical form but also the last vestiges of his earthly bonds, Choso’s thoughts transcended the immediacy of his suffering.

His mind, resilient amid the encroaching shadows of death, wandered back to you and the ephemeral yet poignant life you had shared in the temporal loop. Those memories, vivid and tender, painted a stark contrast to the chaos that now surrounded him. Each recollection of laughter, shared secrets, and quiet evenings spent together in a world without fear or pain stoked a deep, calming warmth within him, distinct from the searing heat of the flames.

As his physical strength waned, the spiritual and emotional fortitude you instilled in him grew stronger. With each labored breath, the pain that racked his body seemed to diminish, overtaken by the growing serenity of his approaching end. The prospect of reuniting with you, of stepping beyond the veil of life into a realm where you awaited him, brought a profound peace—a solace he had yearned for since the wrenching moment of your departure.

Amidst the dance of the flames, where the heat scorched the air and the roar of the fire echoed the tumult of battle, Choso allowed himself a faint smile. It was a smile of acceptance, of readiness to transition from the tumult of his current existence to the peace that awaited with you. In that instant, amidst the devastation, his heart, burdened with loss and battened with duty, was finally ready to come home to you.

As the moment of departure drew near, Choso turned to Yuuji, who had been both a charge and a brother in arms. The words that passed between them were simple yet heavy with the weight of shared experiences and unspoken understanding. “Thank you, Yuji, for becoming my brother,” Choso said, his voice a hoarse whisper over the crackling of the fire.

Yuji, his own eyes reflecting the flames but alight with emotion, nodded solemnly, the bond between them unbroken even in the face of impending separation. “Thank you, Aniki,” Yuji replied, feeling the tears pour from his face. “Thank you.”

Choso thinks life is enough.

Even if it was only a little while.

He smiles one last time at Yuuji.

His wish was granted now and then.

It was all worth it to him in the end.

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ssleeping-in-a-coffin · 23 days ago

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How do curses work?

Let's start with what we actually know about them. Most people would say that a curse is something like a "debuff" or more simply — a weakening of a person or even an entire family line for a certain period of time. Curses often make life miserable for their targets. Examples include "Beauty and the Beast," where everyone was turned into enchanted furniture, or "The Lord of the Rings," where the treasures of the dwarves were considered cursed.

So, the question arises: how do you cast a curse? In some cases, like the dwarves' treasure, a curse seems to appear on its own, as a consequence of greed or other traits. But when it comes to deliberately casting a curse, there are different methods. For example, in "Harry Potter," curses and spells (which are not the same thing, by the way — spells can be neutral, while curses are inherently negative) are cast using a wand and specific words. In this case, the curse is like a "projectile" that needs to be accurately aimed at the target.

Before I started writing this post, I thought that a curse could work "remotely." You say something, and it somehow reaches the target on its own. But after thinking it through, I realized that doesn’t make sense. Imagine saying "die" to someone over the phone, and they just drop dead.

Okay, we all know the worst curse.....

A curse is the power of words, and there are several essential conditions for it to work:

Visibility of the target: The person casting the curse must be in direct visual contact with the victim. This could be a person, a group of people, but photographs or remote images won’t work here.

Physical proximity: The victim must be within a range where the caster can direct the curse's energy.

Pronunciation of words: The verbal component is crucial. The caster must possess specific knowledge. It’s not just a string of insults, but ancient or specially crafted words imbued with magical power. Each curse has its own formula, and misusing it can weaken the effect or even backfire on the caster. In rare cases, skilled sorcerers may pronounce the words mentally.

Emotions: Strong emotions — hatred, anger, or the desire for revenge — give the words their magical potency. The stronger and deeper the emotions, the stronger the curse. Think of it as fuel for the magic.

If this method seems too restrictive, or if you want the curse to hit someone without direct contact, there are other options:

Object-bound curse: A curse can be placed on an object connected to the target, and it activates when the target comes into contact with that item. This could be jewelry, a book, or a weapon. As soon as the victim touches or uses the item, the curse takes effect.

Place-bound curse: A curse can be placed on a house, land, or even a building where the victim frequently visits. When they enter that space, they automatically fall under the curse's influence.

In conclusion, I hope this explanation clarifies things a bit. If you have any other ideas, feel free to share!

———————————————————————————

Oh, I apologize, all the times I've written about diseases I forgot to mention their prevalence. Here's my independent assessment:

Bloodblight Syndrome: 5%

Hexfever: 10%

Crimson Drought: 15%

Nightchill: 30%

Veinrot: 10%

Porcelain Skin: 35% (before) 10% (now)

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episims · 2 months ago

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Erika "I'm glad you came to your senses. Living alone doesn't do anything good for anyone."

Chase "Hmrh."

Erika "Lighten up, dear. Maybe you'll find a new friend in her?"

Chase "I don't need a friend."

Erika "Oh, is that so? I still remember finding a starving man in my garden, hands full of apples. I've helped you a lot in the name of friendship!"

Chase "...I haven't forgotten." She helped me to get a house, but never let me stay in hers. "Your family friend can rent my roof if she accepts the terms. What more do you want?"

Erika "Hush, she's returning. Let's save her from this argument, shall we?"

Erika "Did you like the space, dear?"

Blair "The energy up there is perfect. I instantly hit it off with those flowers and the trees have a cool wavelength, too."

Chase "We should discuss the details of the contract-"

Blair "Sure, give me the paper and I'll put my name on it. Gotta be quick, I have a friend dropping my stuff here at any minute."

Chase "What? We haven't yet agreed-"

Blair "It's hard to find anyone who owns a van and isn't already overbooked, I was damn lucky to get him to help me. Oh, I'm so vibing this. I feel connected to this place already."

Erika "Seems like it's settled, then! Chase, dear, do you need help finding those papers of yours?"

Chase ...I only offered an opportunity yet Erika took it as a promise. I don't need anything from her. I can throw them both out...

I shouldn't let my annoyance cloud rational choice. I'm still lacking crucial components. For now, the rent income will secure the development process.

#ts2 #ts2 gameplay #the sims 2 #the sims 2 gameplay #sims 2 #sims 2 gameplay #foxfire forest #playing foxfire forest #chase craig #blair ivyvale #erika leaf #okay okay just #new sims are hard #but also exciting!#but also... hard

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skxawngonearth · 11 months ago

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TAP posters (spoiler)

Recently noticed there are posters in the TAP classroom, and although lightning makes it a bit difficult, you can make out what they say/show.

Chapeau to whoever was responsible putting these propaganda monstrosities together. The usage of (apex) predators, the uncertain look on that Na'vi child, the guiding/protecting HUMAN hand on their shoulder. It's sickening well done. Having two families seemingly bonding peacfully, with what humans perceive as a desireable enviroment? Huge wink to those promos from the 50s/60s. The ol' classic "DON'T TOUCH!" couldn't missing ofc. Definately explains Teylans fear of Pandoras nature.

RDA/military propaganda was of course also served

Writing in the lower left: "DID YOU KNOW? Unobtanium is a crucial component for clean and sustainable power generation"

#avatar #avatar 2009 #james cameron avatar #james camerons avatar #avatar james cameron #avatar frontiers of pandora #frontiers of pandora #screenshots #afop #fop

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drdemonprince · 1 year ago

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I recently found out in an argument that my girlfriend is a zionist (ie: liberal positioning of the israeli government and its actions are bad, but Israel should exist because necessity for a safe place for jews). In the past I’ve had a lot of respect for her political instincts, both of us being leftists with at best minor disagreements on low-stakes queer issues.

However I’ve never before been in a position with a partner that I have so much love for just to find out one of their political positions is genuinely repulsive to me. The argument we had stretched well into the night, she seemed thoroughly unreachable. It was despairing.

I’m now wondering if my only reasonable course of action is to break up with her. I can’t parse whether this is unfiltered flight instinct on my part, or genuinely the correct moral decision to make. On top of that I cannot stop obsessing around the clock about this problem, and am thinking I should spare myself the trouble. On the other hand I very much still love her and would very much grieve the relationship.

I know this is an overlong and complex ask, and I don’t blame you for not taking it on. But in my place what do you think I should do?

Many people, especially many Jewish people, evangelicals, and conservative christians, have been propagandized extensively to see Israel as a crucial component of Jewish identity & safety. If she's been really deeply basted in this kind of messaging for a long time, then you will essentially need to engage in something akin to cult deprogramming level efforts to help her take apart the entire superstructure of the lies that currently makes up her belief system.

Can she acknowledge the Nakba? Can she acknowledge the original antisemitism behind the British plan to even create Israel? Can she acknowledge that it's an ethnostate where Arab people are largely excluded from political representation? Is she willing to have ongoing conversations with you about this, or is she defensive and quick to move on?

Only you will know the answer to your own question. But I think you can consider the depth of her misinformation & belief in the "project" of Israel, and how willing she is to continue talking about it with you. I think for me, I could only keep dating someone who was very willing to admit to every fact they'd had wrong all this time as i carefully and meticulously brought all of them up. Acknowledging the full history of Israeli settlement basically requires that we acknowledge what an unjust colonial state it is. If she can't confront basic facts, that's a bad sign.

Most of us are losing friendships over this right now and fraying family relationships, so I don't think it's a bridge too far at all to end a relationship over it.

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serenpedac · 9 months ago

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written by your hand

I was talking with Bunny and another dear friend about N’s handwriting and this idea just wouldn’t get out of my mind, so here we are.

Words: ~700 Rating: Gen Relationship: Adam & Nate Warnings: None

The readiness with which he offered to write the letter of introduction suggested he even took pleasure in the activity and indeed, it takes little effort to imagine Nathaniel sitting at a mahogany desk, engrossed in a missive to some distant friend or family member, his writing utensils arranged neatly before him—unlike the current mess.

The candle has burned down to a sputtering stump. Its irregular light glints off the inkwell, but does little to illuminate the person at the desk. He is sitting in the exact same position Adam left him hours before, head bent, lips pressed together, quill gripped tightly in too-long fingers. The only difference are the papers that now litter the desk, some having fallen down to the ground. A waste of valuable material.

He doesn’t tell his companion this.

“Resting between practice is still a crucial component in acquiring a new skill,” he says instead, followed by a wry grin and, “Even for us.”

His companion’s head whips towards him and the candle sputters out, leaving Nathaniel’s eyes as dark as the ink blotting the paper.

“It’s hardly a new skill,” Nathaniel says, stubbornly. “Of all things, this should be—”

He doesn’t need to finish the muttered sentence for Adam to know what he meant. Easy. Once learned, writing does not seem like something that can be forgotten. The readiness with which he offered to write the letter of introduction suggested he even took pleasure in the activity and indeed, it takes little effort to imagine Nathaniel sitting at a mahogany desk, engrossed in a missive to some distant friend or family member, his writing utensils arranged neatly before him—unlike the current mess.

Nathaniel blinks at the extinguished candle as if only noticing it now, before finally putting down his quill and straightening his back, wincing as he does. When he unfolds himself from his seat, Adam is struck once more by the gracefulness of those long limbs. He has seen it before, when they ran in the nearby forest, the slight awkwardness that clung to his movements falling away as Nathaniel focused on their prey, forgetting himself in that moment. He also recalls the exhilaration on his face afterwards. It had been the first time he had seen a glimpse of sheer joy from Nathaniel, a reveling in what his body was capable of.

“Did you use to hunt?” Adam had asked. The Agency had briefed Adam about his new companion, but it had been only the bare essentials. Nothing more was needed, Adam would have agreed, yet he has been finding himself curious to learn more.

Those brown eyes had dulled quickly. “I did not.” Nathaniel had looked at his hands, stretching his fingers and observing them as if they were not entirely his. “I was not deemed… hale enough for such pursuits.”

That had been the end of the conversation.

Adam wonders if Nathaniel regrets his newfound speed and strength, when it means his body no longer remembers those precise movements that used to come with such ease. Yet another thing that is lost in this new life.

He exhales and starts helping Nathaniel tidy the clutter. Such thoughts are pointless. There is no going back to before and his companion must know that, despite the way he keeps trying to eat human food and drink tea.

“You will relearn with time and practice.”

A moment’s silence follows.

“And rest?”

Adam can almost hear the smile in Nathaniel’s voice. He takes care to keep his expression neutral when he hands Nathaniel the gathered papers. “And rest.”

*~*~*

Years later, Adam browses the small private library Nathaniel—Nate, as he now prefers—has put together in search of a tome on one topic or another when a thick, leatherbound book draws his eye. He takes it on the off-chance that it contains the information he is looking for.

Unfamiliar handwriting marks the inside of the cover and he would have gone straight to the table of contents, if it hadn’t been for some part of him catching the words written there.

Treasured property of: Nathaniel H. Sewell

The flourishing cursive is nothing like the elegant, yet simple handwriting he has come to know so well over the years.

“Time and practice,” he mumbles to himself as he puts the book back on its shelf.

For the first time, he thinks that the stubborn insistence with which Nate tries to hold on to all things human may be proof that his friend knows all too well that they have irrevocably changed.

*~*~*

Some notes

Although the concept of muscle memory became an area of study only int he early 1900s, Aristotle already mentioned the idea that memory depends on our bodies. Ever since reading Bunny’s beautiful description of how Nate may have struggled to adjust to his new body in The Ember Days fic, I’ve been a little obsessed with the idea of how having their body changed might affect vampires in Wayhaven.

There’s this ask where Mishka gave an impression of what UB’s handwriting/signatures would look like here, but I also love this take by @/l-xcixxs on their signatures (just look at the ones for F!). My own impression leans a little more towards the latter for N, simply because I think they would keep writing in cursive, just not quite as elaborate as before.

And a final note, some of my ideas of N changing their handwriting come from a friend in high school, who had the most gorgeous cursive handwriting I’ve ever seen, although it was quite hard to read and making notes took him a lot of time haha. He’d taught himself as a teenager to write like that, instead of in the standard cursive he’d learned at school years before. The effort it must have taken him to relearn something like this really impressed me!

I was lying, there's another note, but it's rather unformed: one thing that gets me about N and writing is how tied to their hands it is. Their hands, that they hide so often in their pockets, but use here to put words, maybe even their most intimate thoughts onto paper.

#the wayhaven chronicles #serenwrites #this is going on here because i feel *complicated* about posting such a short work on ao3 by itself #also because it's not edited #so please forgive any spelling/grammar issues or weird sentences

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maziijapanese · 1 month ago

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10 Fascinating Things About Kanji You Might Not Know Yet

Kanji, the logographic characters used in the Japanese writing system, offer an array of intriguing aspects that fascinate learners and scholars alike. Their long history, unique structure, and cultural significance make Kanji a central part of both the language and the broader Japanese cultural landscape. Here are 10 fascinating things about Kanji that you might not know yet:

1. Pictographic Origins:

Many Kanji characters originated as simplified drawings or pictographs of the objects they represent. For instance, the Kanji for "tree" looks like a simplified tree. This direct connection between the character and the object it represents makes Kanji visually interesting and often easier to remember.

2. Complex Characters:

Some Kanji characters are quite intricate and composed of multiple strokes. This complexity contributes to the beauty and artistry of written Japanese. The intricate patterns and lines of Kanji characters can be seen in calligraphy, art, and traditional Japanese design.

3. Multiple Readings:

Kanji characters often have multiple readings (pronunciations), including on'yomi (音読み) based on the Chinese pronunciation and kun'yomi (訓読み) based on the native Japanese pronunciation. This can make learning Kanji more challenging, but it also adds to the richness and diversity of the Japanese language.

4. Radicals:

Kanji characters are categorized into radicals, which are smaller, meaningful components. Understanding radicals aids in learning and memorizing Kanji. By recognizing the radicals within a Kanji character, you can often deduce its meaning or pronunciation.

5. Jōyō Kanji:

The Japanese government designates a set of Kanji characters known as Jōyō Kanji, considered essential for daily use. For example, 人 (ひと, hito) - person; 日 (ひ, hi) - sun, day; 本 (ほん, hon) - book. This list is periodically updated to reflect changes in society and language usage.

6. Cultural Significance:

Kanji characters are integral to Japanese culture, seen in calligraphy, art, and traditional ceremonies. They often carry profound meanings and symbolism. For example, the Kanji for "family" (家) is often used in traditional Japanese homes, symbolizing unity and protection.

7. Stroke Order:

There's a specific stroke order for writing each Kanji character. Following this order is essential for proper penmanship and helps in remembering the characters. Learning the correct stroke order can improve your handwriting and make it easier to recognize Kanji characters.

8. Homophones:

Due to the limited number of sounds in Japanese, different Kanji characters can have the same pronunciation. Context becomes crucial in understanding meaning. For example, the Kanji characters "河" (kawa) and "川" (kawa) both mean "river," but they are written differently.

9. Adaptation in Other Languages:

Some Kanji characters have been adopted by other East Asian languages, like Chinese and Korean, with variations in pronunciation and meaning. This shows the influence and spread of Kanji throughout East Asia.

10. Evolving Characters:

The shapes and meanings of Kanji characters have evolved over centuries. Understanding historical contexts can provide deeper insights into their meanings. For example, the Kanji for "car" (車) was originally a pictograph of a chariot, reflecting the transportation methods of ancient times.

These aspects contribute to the richness and complexity of Kanji, making them a fascinating aspect of the Japanese language and culture. However, due to its complexity, it becomes a daunting challenge for many learners, including myself. There is no one-size-fits-all method or resource that works for everyone, so be patient as you figure out what works best for you to memorize Kanji.

#japanese #learn japanese #japanese langblr #nihongo #japanese language #japanese kanji #kanji #studyblr #kanji tatsumi

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aressida · 7 months ago

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Dear Diary: The Vax Addicts Vs. The Anti-Vaxxers. - Aressida. 11.4.24.

"Dear Diary,

I have been reflecting on the ongoing debates and discussions surrounding vaccines today.

There have been claims suggesting that vaccines linked to long-term health issues, including the development of cancer, making it challenging to discern what is true and what is not.

Nevertheless, I believe it is crucial to acknowledge the existence of these alternative perspectives and engage in open discussions to gain a more comprehensive understanding.

Unfortunately, the topic of vaccination has become polarizing, creating animosity, resentment, and hostility among family members and friends.

It is even more troubling to be labeled as an anti-vaxxer simply for having concerns and wanting to explore different viewpoints. But soon, these labels will be proven wrong by a profound revelation.

I only want what is best for both myself and my loved ones.

What troubles them even further is the realization that geopolitics often infiltrates discussions about vaccines.

It appears that information dissemination is influenced by political agendas, leading to instances where vaccine injuries are not properly reported by the media.

You see, this raises doubts about the transparency of information provided to the public.

Governments hold a significant responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of their citizens. However, the decision-making processes regarding vaccines have left many feeling disillusioned.

Some argue that governments aligning themselves with external organizations overseeing vaccination campaigns should be held accountable for their actions.

This lack of trust has strained relationships and created divisions within our communities.

Can you see where all this is heading?

You may be hesitant now, but being on the wrong side of history is something you will want to avoid. Trust me when I say that you should strive to live long enough to witness the truth unfold.

I want to emphasize that vaccines should be referred to as experimental gene alterations, rather than the traditional understanding of vaccines. They do not qualify as therapies either since the term "therapy" implies a benefit, which can be misleading.

When the vaccine was initially released, there was a wave of people who chose to mock and attack those who had concerns.

What they failed to realize was that this rollout was a component of a larger conspiracy orchestrated by the wealthy and powerful. As a result, friendships and family relationships have become strained.

Unfortunately, many people find it difficult to grasp the extent of the danger they are in or the consequences of placing their trust in the wrong individuals or institutions. They need to see the reality and comprehend the extent of the betrayal they have experienced.

Rather than blindly accepting public narratives or political agendas, we should demand transparency and accountability from those in power. Only through open and honest conversations can we navigate these challenging times and work towards a more unified and informed approach to public health.

It is important to address concerns regarding adverse effects attributed to vaccines, such as the possible connection between vaccination and the development of cancer. We should remember that pharmaceutical companies create drugs because they cannot patent nature.

And, always remember that those labeled as anti-vaxxers approach this topic with compassionate hearts and a pursuit of justice.

Signing off for now, Aressida."

#aressida

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investmentassistant · 4 months ago

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Small steps for major changes

Change can often seem like a monumental task, especially when our aspirations involve significant improvements in our personal or professional lives. However, big changes are usually the result of many small, manageable steps. In this article, we explore several straightforward strategies that can help anyone initiate meaningful changes through simple, everyday actions.

Set clear, attainable goals

The journey to big changes starts with setting precise, achievable goals. General desires like «become healthier» or «increase happiness» are too vague and hard to measure. Instead, frame these goals in actionable terms that offer clear direction. For instance, if you aim to improve health, a specific goal could be «to walk 10,000 steps daily» or «to meditate for 15 minutes each day.» Such specificity provides a concrete path to follow, making the overall goal less daunting and more attainable.

Break your goals into smaller, manageable tasks

Large goals can be overwhelming and may lead to procrastination. To combat this, break down your major goals into smaller, more manageable tasks. This approach not only simplifies what you need to do but also allows for frequent assessment of progress. Each small success fuels motivation, building momentum towards the larger objective. Example: If your goal is to save a certain amount of money, start by saving a small amount each day or week. This breaks the larger goal into achievable daily actions and makes the task less intimidating.

Establish and stick to a routine

Consistency is the backbone of successful change. Embed your small tasks into a daily routine. This could mean integrating a morning workout into your day, setting aside time after dinner for reading, or dedicating an hour over the weekend to review personal finances. When actions become part of a routine, they evolve into habits, reducing the mental effort needed to get them done.

Reflect regularly on your progress

Reflection is crucial for sustained change. It helps you recognize your achievements, understand what’s working, and identify what isn’t. Make it a habit to reflect on your progress weekly or monthly. This not only helps adjust your strategies as needed but also keeps you accountable and dedicated to your long-term goals.

Cultivate small habits with big impacts

Small habits, when maintained consistently, can lead to significant changes over time. Here's a list of simple habits that can make a big difference in your life:

Daily Planning. Spend 10 minutes every morning to plan your day. This helps prioritize tasks and manage your time more effectively.

Exercise. A short daily workout can improve both physical and mental health.

Healthy Eating. Incorporate one serving of vegetables into every meal to enhance diet quality.

Mindfulness. Practice mindfulness or meditation for five minutes each day to reduce stress and increase concentration.

Gratitude. Write down three things you’re grateful for each evening to foster positivity.

Leverage technology for support

In today’s digital age, numerous apps and tools are available to help track and manage your progress towards any goal. Whether it’s fitness trackers, budgeting apps, or productivity tools, technology can provide valuable data and insights, helping you stay on track and motivated.

Build a support system

Changes are easier when supported by others. Share your aspirations with family and friends, join groups with similar interests, or seek a mentor. Supportive relationships can offer encouragement, share insights, and provide accountability, which is essential for long-term success.

Celebrate every small win

Acknowledging and celebrating every small achievement is vital. It helps maintain motivation and reaffirms your commitment to your goals. Remember, each small step forward is a component of the larger journey towards significant change.

Achieving significant life improvements doesn't require drastic actions all at once. By focusing on small, manageable steps and setting achievable goals, you can effectively foster substantial changes. Remember, every significant journey begins with a single, small step. Keep moving forward, and gradually, you will see your efforts accumulate into the big changes you aspire to achieve.

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thatsgeeky · 2 years ago

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Bringing Your NPCs to Life: Tips for Creating A Believable Character Backstory in D&D

As a dungeon master, one of the most important parts of your job is creating believable and interesting NPCs (non-player characters) for your players to interact with. These NPCs can range from shopkeepers and guards to quest givers and powerful villains, and they play a crucial role in bringing your campaign world to life.

However, creating NPCs that feel real and relatable can be a challenging task. In this blog post, we'll be discussing some tips and tricks for creating believable NPCs in D&D. From giving NPCs a backstory to making them react realistically to the players, we'll show you how to make your NPCs feel like real, living people. So whether you're a seasoned dungeon master or just starting out, read on to learn how to create NPCs that will keep your players engaged and invested in your game.

Family and Relationships

Family and relationships are an essential element of an NPCs backstory and can give insight into their personality and motivations. For example, an NPC who has lost a loved one might be more likely to be driven by grief and a desire for revenge.

Family and relationships can also provide hooks for the players to interact with the NPCs, creating interesting and dynamic interactions. It can also create conflicts for the NPCs and the players, and the NPCs can have different types of relationship with the player characters like friends, enemies, mentors, allies, and more.

Additionally, NPCs can have complex relationships, for example, an NPC who has a love-hate relationship with one of the player characters. Knowing the NPCs family and relationships can also help the DM to create a believable dialogue, as NPCs can have different roles in the family or society and it can affect their actions and motivations.

Childhood Experiences

Another crucial component of an NPCs biography is their early life, which has the power to influence their personality, worldview, and moral principles. An NPC who was raised in poverty, for instance, might be more motivated by a desire for money and status. Childhood memories can also serve as springboards for the players to engage with the non-player characters (NPCs), resulting in engaging and dynamic interactions. The early experiences of the NPCs might influence their beliefs, values, and worldview, and it can also lead to disputes between them and the players.

In addition, NPCs early life experiences can affect their talents and aptitudes; for instance, an NPC who grew up in a conflict zone may be better at surviving and engaging in warfare. Additionally, it can affect how they feel and think. For instance, an NPC who experienced abuse as a youngster may struggle with trust or develop PTSD. As NPCs can have diverse perspectives on life and the world based on their experiences, knowing the NPCs early experiences can also aid the DM in crafting believable dialogue.

Education or Training

An NPCs education and training can give meaning to their talents and abilities and are a significant part of their narrative. Knowing what an NPC has studied or received training in might help determine their level of skill and knowledge. A skilled wizard NPC, for instance, may be more motivated by a quest for power and knowledge.

The players' interactions with the NPCs may be made more fascinating and dynamic by means of education and training. As the education and training of the NPCs may impact their views, values, and worldview, it can also lead to disputes between the NPCs and the players.

Additionally, NPCs education and training can shape their career and occupation, for example, an NPC who is a trained engineer might be more likely to be a successful inventor or architect. It can also shape their social status, for example, an NPC who has received a noble education might be more likely to be a member of the upper class. Knowing the NPCs education and training can also help the DM to create a believable dialogue, as NPCs can have different perspectives on life and the world based on their education and training.

Career or Occupation

An NPCs career or occupation can also play a role in shaping their backstory and provide context for their skills and abilities. Knowing what an NPC does for a living can give insight into their skills, abilities, and motivations. For example, an NPC who is a shopkeeper might be more likely to be driven by a desire for wealth and success. A career or occupation can also provide hooks for the players to interact with the NPCs, creating interesting and dynamic interactions. It can also create conflicts for the NPCs and the players, as the NPCs career or occupation can shape their beliefs, values, and how they perceive the world.

The NPCs career or occupation can shape their social status, for example, an NPC who is a noble might be more likely to be a member of the upper class. It can also shape their reputation, for example, an NPC who is a notorious thief might be feared or respected by other NPCs. Knowing the NPCs career or occupation can also help the DM to create a believable dialogue, as NPCs can have different perspectives on life and the world based on their career or occupation.

Life Events

Life events that shape an NPCs personality are also an important element of an NPCs backstory and can give insight into their personality, beliefs, and values. For example, an NPC who has experienced a traumatic event, like a war, might be more likely to be driven by a desire for peace and safety. Life events can also provide hooks for the players to interact with the NPCs, creating interesting and dynamic interactions. It can also create conflicts for the NPCs and the players, as the NPCs life events can shape their beliefs, values and how they perceive the world.

Additionally, NPCs life events can shape their skills and abilities, for example, an NPC who has been through a shipwreck might be more skilled in survival and navigation. It can also shape their emotional and mental state, for example, an NPC who has suffered a great loss might have trust issues or PTSD. Knowing the NPCs life events can also help the DM to create a believable dialogue, as NPCs can have different perspectives on life and the world based on their experiences.

In Summary

Giving your NPCs a backstory is an essential step in making them feel like real and relatable characters

A backstory provides context for an NPC's actions and motivations, making them more believable and interesting to the players

Family and relationships are an essential element of an NPC's backstory and can give insight into their personality and motivations

Childhood experiences are another important element of an NPC's backstory and can shape their personality, beliefs, and values

Education and training are an important element of an NPC's backstory and can provide context for their skills and abilities

An NPC's career or occupation can also play a role in shaping their backstory and provide context for their skills and abilities

Life events that shape an NPC's personality are also an important element of an NPC's backstory and can give insight into their personality, beliefs, and values

By including these elements in an NPC's backstory, you can create characters that feel real and relatable to your players

Additionally, it will help you to understand the motivations and actions of NPCs, making the game more interesting and dynamic

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hayatheauthor · 2 years ago

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How To Hook Your Readers With Your Chapter’s Starting & Ending

The two most crucial components of a chapter are its beginning and end. The start of your chapter determines your reader’s first impression of the next stage of your book, and also helps hook them in. The ending, on the other hand, determines whether or not they will keep on reading your book and keeps them wanting more.

A bad start or end to a chapter can potentially ruin your reader’s immersion and leave a bad impression. Want to know how to effectively start and end a chapter? Here are some tips to get you started.

How To Start A Chapter

The first paragraph is possibly the most important aspect of any chapter. This is the bit that hooks your reader in and convinces them to stay for the next few pages even if it’s getting late and they need to head to bed.

Writing a good start to your chapter might feel easy enough—you just need to hook your readers, right? But there are certain techniques an author needs to keep in mind when writing a new chapter.

How To Write A Hook

When trying to hook your readers in here are some pointers you need to keep in mind:

Give them some sort of action in the first paragraph.

Write a one-liner that creates surprise, intrigue or excitement. You can add the context and description in the next few paragraphs, but the first paragraph is to ensure your readers are hooked and want to continue reading your book.

Make them think this is an ‘important chapter’.

To an author, chapters can’t be divided into important or unimportant because every scene is there for a reason. However, a reader who doesn’t know your book as well as you do can easily segregate scenes as boring and important.

If a reader thinks that the next few pages are going to be a boring filler chapter they’re probably going to set down your book and come back later. This is why it’s important to show them why this chapter is important. What’s going to happen in the next few pages? Why is this situation important or significant to the plot? How does it make the story move forward? Consider the answer to some of these questions when you write your chapter’s hook.

How To End A Chapter

If the start of your hooks your reader in, then the end is what makes them turn to the next page. A chapter’s ending needs to provide your readers with some sense of closure while also giving them a reason to read more. This can sound complicated, but it’s easy to accomplish once you know what you’re doing.

How To Establish Closure

Think back to the last book you read. The chapters probably didn’t conclude with a concrete note that could be paired with a cursive the end but they certainly established some sort of closure to help wrap up the scene.

When you write a chapter, you probably do it with a certain motive in mind. Authors often think something along the lines of ‘this chapter is supposed to accomplish this and that’ when planning a chapter, and once this is accomplished they end the chapter and move on to the next stage of their story.

You don’t necessarily need to tie up all the loose ends and give your readers a concrete ending, but you do need to give them some sort of conclusion.

The protagonist went back to their homeland and reached their family home safely. The antagonist snuck into the protagonist’s office and found the documents they were looking for. Give your readers some sort of ending, but also show them something to look forward to.

Following the previous examples, maybe the protagonist falls asleep knowing this is very likely the last moment of peace they will have for the rest of the week. Maybe the antagonist sneaks out with the documents, knowing they will use this to get the protagonist in trouble.

Cliffhangers

Cliffhangers are a great way to end a chapter—they give your readers a motive to read more while also wrapping up the current scene. However, when used too frequently, cliffhangers can get boring and lose that special touch.

So, how many cliffhangers are too many cliffhangers?

When ending a chapter with a cliffhanger, you should first consider whether or not this actually qualifies as a cliffhanger. This might come as a surprise to some, but there is a big difference between a cliffhanger and breaking a scene into two in order to create some semblance of surprise.

Here are some examples to help:

A good cliffhanger: Your protagonist is ready to head to bed and nearly falls asleep, but suddenly feels uneasy. It’s then that they realise something is watching them. Or rather, someone. Except, the only problem is, they are almost certain they locked their room door and closed the curtains. So how could anyone be in their room?

A bad cliffhanger: Your protagonist is ready to head to bed and nearly falls asleep, but suddenly feels uneasy. It’s then that they realise something is watching them. Or rather, someone. It’s then that they sit up in bed and turn on the lamp on their bedside table, only to see…

The first example is an actual cliffhanger. It gives your readers a situation, builds up the stakes, and ends with a (figurative or literal) question. The second one starts the same way, but it ends by cutting a scene off halfway. That is an example of a redundant cliffhanger that an author is likely to use too many times for no reason.

Starting Or Ending The Chapter Based On The Setting

As mentioned at the start, it’s important to know how to write a chapter’s starting or ending based on the setting and mood.

Small factors such as word choice, pacing, the length of your sentences, etc. heavily impact the mood of your chapter. A chapter that jumps straight into a fight scene can’t start the same way as a chapter where the main character wakes up from a coma.

The first step to writing a good beginning to your chapter is figuring out the tone you are aiming for. Do you want to sound urgent, fast-paced and make your readers feel tense? Do you want to create a calm and comfortable environment to make your readers feel as safe as your protagonist?

Once you know your tone, you should customise your writing style to curate the perfect experience for your readers. You can read some of my previous blog posts to learn more about how to do this.

I hope this blog on how to hook your readers with your chapter’s starting & ending will help you in your writing journey. Be sure to comment any tips of your own to help your fellow authors prosper, and follow my blog for new blog updates every Monday and Thursday.

Looking For More Writing Tips And Tricks?

Are you an author looking for writing tips and tricks to better your manuscript? Or do you want to learn about how to get a literary agent, get published and properly market your book? Consider checking out the rest of Haya’s book blog where I post writing and marketing tools for authors every Monday and Thursday.

Want to learn more about me and my writing journey? Visit my social media pages under the handle @hayatheauthor where I post content about my WIP The Traitor’s Throne and life as a teenage author.

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graveyard-party666 · 7 days ago

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Blood & Wine

The calm before the storm

I started writing this chapter in May. I tried finishing it in one week but as you can tell i couldn't. I only finished it a few weeks ago.

You can certainly tell that different parts of that chapter were written in different time and in different mental state. Also, I'm introducing my new OC here.

I honestly don't really like how it came out but it is what it is. You can call it a filler chapter.

Yes, it's long. Probably the longest chapter I've written.

Adult life brings so much obstacles. That Red understood when it turned or that she needs to talk to stupid people in order to work. Unfortunate. Another thing Red learned during her work as a psychologist is the fact that you can't put your expectations too high, never tell your clients about the expectations or promise them the results. Because that's not how psychology works.

Another thing Red learned is the fact that having friends from different fields is very beneficial. As much as she would rather avoid all that military world, everything somehow leads to the military in the end. Even before she started working as a consultant for TF141 she had to work with a few soldiers who she still deeply respects.

Friendship offers a myriad of benefits for humans that extend far beyond mere social interaction. Firstly, friendships provide a crucial source of emotional support. Whether celebrating triumphs or weathering challenges, friends offer a listening ear, empathy, and understanding, which can help individuals navigate the complexities of life with greater ease.

Moreover, friendships contribute to reducing stress levels and enhancing overall mental well-being. Spending time with friends promotes the release of feel-good hormones like oxytocin and serotonin, which can alleviate feelings of loneliness and anxiety. This, in turn, fosters a sense of happiness and contentment.

Furthermore, friendships serve as catalysts for personal growth and development. Through interactions with friends, individuals gain new perspectives, receive constructive feedback, and engage in self-reflection, which are essential components of self-improvement. Whether through shared experiences or intellectual discussions, friendships facilitate learning and expansion of one's worldview.

Social connection is a fundamental human need, and friendships fulfill this need by providing a sense of belonging and acceptance. Feeling connected to others fosters a sense of community and strengthens interpersonal bonds, which can bolster self-esteem and confidence.

During times of adversity, friendships become invaluable resources for resilience. Having a support network of friends can help individuals cope with challenges, providing encouragement, motivation, and practical assistance when needed most. Knowing that one is not alone in facing life's trials can instill a sense of hope and perseverance.

In summary, friendships enrich our lives in myriad ways, offering emotional support, reducing stress, fostering personal growth, enhancing social connection, and bolstering resilience. Investing in meaningful friendships is not only enjoyable but also essential for nurturing our overall well-being and fulfillment.

Or at least that's what psychology books say.

To Red friendship is something nobody could ever put in words or explain.

Friendship, she pondered, was a tapestry woven from moments shared, laughter echoing through the halls of memory, and the silent understanding between souls. It was the comforting presence on a dark night, the unwavering support during turbulent times, and the joy found in simple companionship.

To her, friendship was more than just a bond; it was a lifeline, a beacon of light guiding her through the darkest of storms. And as she stood there, enveloped by the tranquil beauty of the night, she couldn't help but feel grateful for the cherished friends who had become her family, her anchors in an ever-changing world.

Too poetic, isn't it? That's why it's better not to talk about it.

What she knew exactly is that friend will always help, always warn you. That's how she was. That's what she asks from people.

Since professor Benar started helping her with profile, those thoughts about friendship and its meaning somehow became much more constant.

The weird gut feeling that was eating her up almost every day was getting unbearable. Something didn't feel right. It's as if that case was much deeper than she thought and then everyone else thought.

Her friendship with the soldiers of Task Force 141 can be called strange, incomprehensible, naive. But Red doesn’t care much about what their friendship might be called. But the relationship with the professor can hardly be called friendship. Yes, perhaps Red has become paranoid, but for some reason the appearance of her so respected professor raises a lot of questions, but only for her.

The professor always seemed to be watching the girl's slightest movement. He is a genius, a professional, and Red has learned to analyze any of his words or actions, looking for hidden subtext. Abel Benar was not one to do or say anything just for the sake of it. And he himself believed that there was some kind of secret meaning in everything.

Why did he came now?

Red sat in her office, the soft ticking of the clock on the wall marking the passage of time. Her office was a sanctuary of calm, with shelves lined with books on psychology, a well-worn leather couch for patients, and her desk neatly organized. Yet, despite the serenity of her surroundings, her mind was anything but calm. She leaned back in her chair, her eyes unfocused as she stared at a spot on the ceiling, lost in thought.

Hassan's file lay open on her desk, the pages filled with notes, transcripts, and psychological evaluations. A name that had become synonymous with terror in the media, was her latest and most challenging case. The more she delved into his mind, the more she felt an unsettling, nagging sensation in her gut that there was something much deeper and more complex at play.

She flipped through the pages, her eyes scanning the meticulously detailed notes. Hassan's background was filled with trauma, loss, and radicalization, a story all too common in the profiles of terrorists. But there were inconsistencies, fragments of his story that didn't quite fit. Red couldn't shake the feeling that Hassan wasn't just a product of his environment; there was something else, something unseen that was influencing him.

Red turned her chair towards the window, looking out at the city skyline. Her instincts had never led her astray before. She had a talent for seeing the patterns that others missed, for understanding the hidden motives behind human behavior. And her instincts were screaming at her now that there was more to Hassan's story than met the eye.

Reaching for her phone, Red dialed the number of her contact. She only had a few minutes before professor Benar comes back. And the last thing she wants right now is getting him into her assumptions based on intuition. So she called that one person. The person she could trust, the soldier who can be trust. The one who she had an unlike friendship with. Who knows not to call her by her name.

She needed more information, more pieces of the puzzle to fit together. As she waited for the call to connect, she glanced back at Hassan's file, her resolve hardening. She would get to the bottom of this, no matter how deep she had to dig.

Because Red knew that understanding Hassan wasn't just about profiling a terrorist. It was about uncovering a truth that could prevent future atrocities, about seeing the humanity even in those society deemed monsters. And her gut told her that the truth about Hassan was far more complicated and far more important than anyone realized.

The phone clicked as the line connected, and Red steeled herself for the conversation ahead. She would follow her instincts, no matter where they led her, because sometimes the mind's darkest corners held the key to understanding, and she was determined to unlock it.

As the phone rang, Red glanced back at Hassan's file, her resolve hardening.

"Hey, Red," came Major Adam Black's deep, steady voice on the other end of the line. "Long time no hear. What’s up?"

"Adam," she began, a small smile tugging at her lips despite the seriousness of the situation. "I will be talking quickly. I need your help. I'm working on infamous terrorist's psychological profile, and there's something off. I can't put my finger on it, but my gut is telling me there's more to this than anyone realizes."

"Figures you'd call with a puzzle," Adam chuckled, a warm, familiar sound. "You always did love the tricky ones. What’s the scoop?"

"I need more information," she said. "There are gaps in his story, inconsistencies that don't make sense. I think it's important. I think it's something bigger than CIA thinks it is."

"Intriguing," Adam replied, his tone growing more serious. "Alright, send me everything you have. I’ll reach out to some contacts. We'll crack this together."

"Thanks, Adam," Red said, relief washing over her. "I knew I could count on you."

"Always," he said, the smile evident in his voice. "I missed this, you know? Stay safe, Red. We'll get to the bottom of this."

As she ended the call, Red felt a renewed sense of determination. She would follow her instincts, no matter where they led her, because sometimes the mind's darkest corners held the key to understanding, and she was determined to unlock it.

She's alone in this.

The sudden feeling of anxiety washed over Red as she started thinking about this whole ordeal. There is the certain connection in everything, the pattern is obvious yet confusing.

Working with professor was easy, he never once made Red feel like she's not smart enough. But the team kept its distance from him which were understandable. They didn't trust Red at first too, probably still don't trust her completely.

Red glanced at the clock for what felt like the hundredth time that afternoon. The day had dragged on, with deadlines piling up and meetings blending into one another. She wasn’t alone in her longing for the workday to end. Red could feel the same restlessness in the air from her colleagues, all of them itching to close their laptops with unfinished reports and escape the monotony of the HQ.

What kept her going was the thought of the evening ahead—a moment when the day would finally end, and she could unwind with the people she had shared this long day with. To listen Price's stories, to try and mediate between Gaz and Soap's bickering, to sit in silence with Ghost. There was something comforting about the idea of sitting together, laughing over casual conversation, and raising a glass at the end of it all. Red could almost taste the drink she would share with them, the laughter that would echo across the table, and the sense of relief that would come when they were no longer coworkers, but just friends, relaxing after a long day. And maybe she would even forget about her insecurities and believe for a moment that they trust her.

Red tapped her fingers against the desk, her mind drifting away from the spreadsheets and emails demanding her attention. Outside, the golden light of early evening was already filtering through the windows, signaling the end of the day was near. She sighed, shifting in her seat, knowing there were still a few more tasks to check off before she could truly relax. But her thoughts kept returning to the same place: the moment when work would finally be over.

She could already picture it in her head—how she and her colleagues would gather at their favorite spot down the street. The usual post-work ritual, where they would trade in the stress of the HQ for the easy comfort of shared drinks and stories. Red liked these moments the most, when the formalities of the workday faded away and they could just be themselves. There was a sense of camaraderie that only seemed to emerge when the workday was behind them, as if the exhaustion of the hours before somehow strengthened their bond.

Red imagined the laughter bubbling up as someone made a joke, or the way a cold drink felt in hand after a day of constant work. She wanted to feel that sense of release, the collective sigh they would all share as they eased into the evening, knowing that for a little while, the responsibilities of tomorrow could wait. In those moments, with the warmth of her colleagues around her and the sharp bite of a drink on her tongue, Red always felt a little more alive, as if the whole day had been leading up to this one point of connection and relief.

As the clock finally approached the end of the shift, the office buzzed with a sense of impending freedom. Red's thoughts were already dancing around the idea of drinks with her colleagues when the door swung open with a creak. In walked Soap, his unmistakable presence lighting up the room. Readheaded woman still couldn't understand how him and the rest became such an important part of her life.

“Come on, Red!” he called out, his thick Scottish accent slicing through the chatter. “Are ye gonna sit there all day or what? The pub’s waitin’!”

Red looked up, her anticipation of the evening sparking into excitement at his familiar, boisterous tone. Soap had a knack for bringing energy wherever he went, and his playful urgency made her smile.

“Alright, alright, I’m coming!” she replied, quickly gathering her things. He leaned against her desk, arms crossed, grinning as he waited, clearly amused by her flustered pace.

“Ye’ve been workin’ like a dog today with that professor of yours,” he teased, his eyes twinkling. “A wee break’s long overdue. The others will be there already, drinkin’ our share!”

With a final glance at the clock, Red felt the last vestiges of the workday melt away. Soap’s enthusiasm was contagious, and she felt a rush of relief and eagerness to escape the office confines. As she rushed to join him, Soap stepped back, gesturing dramatically toward the door as if it were a grand entrance.

“After ye, lass!” he said with a mock bow, and they both laughed, ready to leave the workday behind and embrace the evening ahead.

The pub wasn't busy, woman could see why Task Force's soldiers prefer this place. It's peaceful. The blues plays softly in the back, some posters on the walls. Feels cool.

As Red and Soap stepped into the dimly lit pub, the warm atmosphere enveloped them like a welcoming embrace.

“Look who finally made it!” chuckled Gaz from their usual corner table, raising his glass in a cheerful toast. Captain Price sat beside him, a knowing smile on his face as he took a sip of his drink. Ghost leaned back in his chair, his signature skull mask partially obscuring his expression, but Red couldn’t shake the sense of intensity that surrounded him.

“Hope ye didn’t wait long,” Soap said, swaggering toward the table with an exaggerated air. Red followed, feeling the excitement of the evening lift her spirits.

“Not at all. We saved a spot for you two,” Price replied, gesturing to the empty seats. Red slid into the booth next to Ghost, acutely aware of how close they were. His presence was comforting yet intimidating, making it hard to focus on anything else.

The conversation flowed easily as drinks were poured and stories exchanged. Soap regaled them with tales of the day’s mishaps, earning hearty laughter from Gaz and Price. Readhead joined in, her laughter ringing out, but her gaze would occasionally drift toward Ghost. He seemed quieter than the others, his eyes observing the interactions with a subtle intensity that intrigued her.

“You alright, Red?” Ghost suddenly asked, his voice low and steady, breaking through her thoughts. She blinked, surprised he had noticed her moment of silence.

“Yeah, just… enjoying the stories,” she replied, trying to keep her tone casual. She felt a warmth rise in her cheeks, hoping the dim light would mask her slight embarrassment.

'Good job... keep staring and embarrassing yourself,' psychologist couldn't help but scold herself.

“Ye’re too quiet for a night out,” Soap teased, nudging her. “What’s got yer attention?”

Red shot him a playful glare, grateful for the distraction. “Nothing, just thinking about how much work I’m going to have tomorrow,” she deflected, a smile on her lips.

“Ah, come on!” Gaz chimed in. “Leave the work behind for tonight! We’ve got drinks and good company. That’s what matters.”

Red nodded, trying to immerse herself in the moment. The night wore on, laughter growing louder as the drinks flowed freely, creating a sense of camaraderie that felt invigorating.

As the evening unfolded, psychologist felt a comfortable connection with her colleagues, Ghost included. His occasional glances in her direction made her heart race, but she pushed the feeling aside, focusing instead on the camaraderie and joy that filled the air. Ghost may have caught her eye more than once. For example, when he caught her dancing in her office... but she was determined not to read too much into it, especially knowing her issues with commitment. After all, it was just a night out with people she is working with, and woman intended to enjoy every minute of it.

As the night continued to unfold in the cozy pub, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and conversations. Captain Price leaned back in his chair, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Alright, lads,” he said, gaining the attention of everyone at the table. “I've got something to show you.”

He pulled out his phone, scrolling through photos until he landed on an old one. With a grin, he turned the screen toward the group. “Check this out."

The table leaned in, curiosity piqued. The image revealed a much younger Price in his Lieutenant days, looking surprisingly clean-shaven and almost boyish. His trademark cap was nowhere to be seen, and his blue eyes sparkled with youthful energy.

“Blimey, is that really you?” Soap exclaimed, barely containing his laughter. “You look like a completely different person without the beard!”

Gaz chuckled, unable to help himself. “You almost look… approachable!” he added playfully, his eyes dancing with amusement.

Price smirked, raising an eyebrow. “Approachable? I’ll have you know I was just as intimidating back then,” he shot back, feigning offense.

“Intimidating? You look like you just stepped off a school bus!” Gaz chimed in, shaking his head with a grin.

Even Ghost, who typically maintained his grumpy, stoic demeanor, chuckled softly at the sight. He tilted his head slightly as he examined the picture, a hint of a smile breaking through his usual composure. “Still had the same steely glare,” he remarked, his voice low but laced with amusement.

Then Red leaned in closer, squinting at the picture with mock seriousness. “Jesus Christ, Captain… you should have told me you're naked in that picture!” she exclaimed, the words slipping out before she could stop herself.

The table erupted into laughter, and Price’s eyes widened in playful shock. “I’m not naked!” he protested, trying to regain his composure. “It’s just a lack of facial hair, that’s all!”

“Right, right,” Red said with a smirk, enjoying the banter. “But seriously, it’s a whole new look for you.”

“Very funny,” Price replied, feigning annoyance but unable to hide his smile. “But you’ve got to admit, I was quite the dashing young officer.”

“Dashing?” Soap cackled. “More like fresh-faced! I can’t believe you went for the clean-shaven look. What were you thinkin’?”

Price shrugged, the laughter still bubbling around the table. “I was young and foolish, obviously. It was a different time—no need for the beard when I was trying to impress the brass.”

The group continued to laugh and share stories, the camaraderie flowing freely. Red felt a warmth spread through her, the memories and banter weaving a tapestry of friendship that made her heart feel full. Even Ghost’s rare chuckle added to the evening's lightheartedness, making it all the more enjoyable.

This felt... right. No professors, no terrorists. But the feeling that it was calm before the storm wasn't leaving Red's mind. The anxiety of what might come next was bothering her, and maybe she should listen to her doubts.

Dubito ergo cogito, cogito ergo sum.

Tag list: @cloudofbutterflies92 @chloekistune

#blood & wine #blood & wine series #self insert: red #cod self insert (maybe)#oc:red #oc: red #Spotify

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