#Miss International Queen 2022

[themakeupbrush]

Miss International United Kingdom 2022 National Costume

My national costume is dedicated to the women who took the first steps to allow us to take our stance in todays society. The colours of my national costume represent that of the colours used in the campaign to gain the right to vote for women. Purple for Loyalty and Dignity, White for Purity and Green for Hope. In addition to the colours, I had decided to include the crest of our late Queen, Elizabeth II, as she had helped normalise women in power through her reign over the last 7 decades. In 1918, women over the ages of 30 had won the right to vote for the first time in the United Kingdom and a decade later this had changed to women over the ages of 21. The right to vote was not an easy journey, one of Britain’s most iconic Suffragette, Emmeline Pankhurst dedicated 40 years to the cause and lost her life in the process. Women have played a significant role in todays society, though the journey continues to achieve equality in all aspects of life. To be a part of Miss International alongside 68 other sister queens from around the world; I am proud to say we are change makers that are making a difference in our respected countries.

[conandaily2022]

Jasmin Selberg biography: 13 things about Miss International 2022

Jasmin Selberg biography: 13 things about Miss International 2022

Jasmin Selberg is a German beauty queen. Here are 13 more things about her:

[gasstationlady]

right person, right timing, right? | a charles leclerc social media au | pt. 1

pairing: charles leclerc x figureskater!reader (fc: jennie kim and some yuna kim)

after almost a decade, monaco's two-time olympic women's figure skating champion, y/n l/n, moves back home for her retirement.

notes: y/n's career is inspired by kim yuna's career! hopefully it’s not too confusing to read and follow 😭

disclaimer: typos. swearing. chatgpt french. i'm not the most educated in figure skating, so pls excuse any mistakes! photos aren't mine, nothing here is factual.

masterlist ⋆ next

nbcsports

92,932 likes

nbcsports Y/N L/N announces retirement after 2024 World Championships

The Queen of Figure Skating has taken her last bow.

NBCSports writer Kyle Smith tweets word that Y/N L/N, whose bid to become a fourth-consecutive World champion was narrowly denied today by the United States's Carolyn Rivers, has confirmed that she will retire at the age of 25.

The Monegasque superstar will end her stellar career with the 2018 and 2022 Olympic gold, three world championships, and the distinction of never finishing off the podium in her senior-level international career.

Read the rest of the article now on our website.

View all 508 comments

user no. fucking. way. please say sike rn

user God I don't blame her, figure skating is turning into math these days. She deserved that gold.

user ik monaco is depressed as hell rn LOL bc same

↳ user The way that's so accurate because imagine the #1 athlete representing your country is all of a sudden retiring. 😭😭 Monaco literally only has 2 Olympic medals EVER and they were both won by Y/N, if that doesn't say how significant she is to the country then idk.

↳ user i heard they even nicknamed her "Ice Queen Y/N" 😭😭

↳ user Yes, she is called "La Reine des Glaces" in Monaco!

user no hate to carolyn at all but she isn't rlly a complete skater. i'm extremely disappointed with the judging today

user wow i suddenly can't read

user Nooooo not my favorite skater ☹️

user i can't imagine watching a competition without y/n present :( such a major loss for the fs community, but i wish her the best in her retirement! 🥺🥺

user she just did one of the best performances i've ever seen, just to end up winning silver?? make it make sense fr

yourusername

liked by _kagavovskay_14, mlnmarta and 140,861 others

yourusername chez moi est là où est mon cœur, je t'aime monaco 🇲🇨 SEE TRANSLATION home is where my heart is, i love you monaco 🇲🇨

View all 1,816 comments

graciegold95 Beautiful 💞

↳ yourusername 💞💞

user are you quiting skating forever? :(

↳ yourusername i’ll be taking a break for a while but i will always skate, just not competitively! ❤️

user Nous regretterons de vous voir compétitionner, mais nous espérons que vous passerez une retraite incroyable, notre reine des glaces. SEE TRANSLATION We will miss watching you compete, but we hope you have an amazing retirement, our ice queen.

↳ yourusername Merci beaucoup ❤️ SEE TRANSLATION Thank you so much ❤️

isabeau.levito 🥹❤️❤️

mae_meite Je te souhaite tout le meilleur, jolie 💞 SEE TRANSLATION Wishing the best for you, pretty 💞

user so beautiful

user Bienvenue chez toi ! SEE TRANSLATION Welcome back home !

user i can’t be the only one wishing for charles and y/n to reunite (and get back together) now that she moved back to Monaco 😅

↳ user STOP BC LITERALLY ME TOOO 😭😭😭

↳ user omg i thought i was the only one who remembered they dated

y/nupdates

5,211 likes

y/nupdates Y/N attending a fundraising event in Paris! This is her first appearance since announcing her retirement three weeks ago 🥹

View all 55 comments

user I already miss seeing her on the ice 🥲

user omgg her wearing chanel is everything

user aww she looks so happy!!

user How did charles fumble her

↳ user i'm pretty sure that it was just the wrong time for them :(

↳ user Ik that they broke up bc she moved to Canada for skating but why couldn't they just do long distance 😩😩

user y/n will forever be my celebrity crush 😍😍

leclerc16

2,332 likes

leclerc16 Charles in Paris with fans today!

View all 30 comments

user seeing everyone surrounding him overwhelms me and i’m not even there 😩

user am i delusional for thinking he’ll somehow see y/n in Paris 😭😭

↳ user I mean they also both have been in Monaco the past two months and so far no interactions between them 😐

↳ user well no interactions that we know of 😁🤔

user charles looks so bf here

yourusername

liked by chanelofficial, lorenzotl, arthur_leclerc and 160,323 others

yourusername merci @/chanelofficial de m'avoir invitée 💞 SEE TRANSLATION thank you for inviting me 💞

View all 433 comments

chanelofficial 💞💞

user face card never declines

user so pretty 😍😍

user omg not arthur AND lorenzo liking this pic?? 👀

↳ user the logical side of me thinks it’s normal bc they all grew up together but at the same time it’s kind of sus since it’s usually just Arthur liking and not both🤔

↳ user 😭😭😭

user wait i’m confused why did she retire at such a young age?

↳ user It’s actually quite common for competitive figure skaters to retire “early.” Y/N hasn’t stated an official reason but I’m assuming the physical and mental exhaustion just got to her, especially because the sport has been favoring difficulty over artistry lately 🤷‍♀️

mlnmarta

liked by yourusername, charles_leclerc and 33,522 others

mlnmarta Les aventures avec sa tante Y/N sont ses préférées ❤️ SEE TRANSLATION Adventures with her Aunt Y/N are her favorite ❤️

View all 193 comments

yourusername le temps avec Chiara est mon préféré 🥰 SEE TRANSLATION Time with Chiara is my favorite 🥰

user the cutest duo 🥹

user Why is this y/n girl suddenly everywhere

↳ user umm y/n and marta are childhood friends lmao they’ve always posted each other! i think the internet has just amplified everything recently

user so does y/n have no job now lmfao

↳ user I'm like 98% sure she's gonna end up being a figure skating coach or an influencer or both

↳ user guys she's literally still working with her sponsors and i don't think they're dropping her any time soon

↳ user Chilllll she deadass just retired

user NO WAY CHARLES LIKED

yourusername

liked by charles_leclerc, lorenzotl and 597,390 others

yourusername Je voulais juste remercier tous ceux qui sont venus me soutenir lors de ma dernière présentation à Monaco. Je suis infiniment reconnaissante. Ce n'est pas la fin, mais plutôt le début d'un nouveau chapitre. ❤️

I just wanted to thank everyone who came to support me at my final showcase in Monaco. I’m endlessly grateful. This is not the end, instead it’s the start of a new chapter. ❤️

View all 2,104 comments

yourbestie À couper le souffle. Je t'aime ❤️ SEE TRANSLATION Breathtaking. I love you ❤️

user je n'ai pas pu m'empêcher de pleurer en regardant 😭😭 SEE TRANSLATION i couldn’t help the tears from falling while watching 😭😭

user you’re amazing 🫶🏼

chanelofficial 💞💞

adidas A true queen 👑

user WAITTTTT CHARLES LIKED

↳ user It’s aggravating to see Charles constantly being mentioned in Y/N’s comments. Other than that, this is a reach. I think everyone is forgetting that Y/N is highly respected in Monaco so it’s not unusual for Charles to like her photos. You can even check; all of Charles friends and other well known individuals from Monaco are also in her likes.

↳ user lmfaoooo it’s truly not that deep girl, it’s okay to smile

user her adding in her own translation is so real of her 😭

user There will never be another skater as graceful and talented as you 🥺🥺

f1gossip

12,388 likes

f1gossip Charles Leclerc seen with ex-girlfriend Camille Dubois driving around Monaco. Many fans were convinced he was back with a different ex, Y/N L/N, after Charles and his family were spotted at Y/N’s retirement showcase last week. Always Mr. Indecisive 👀👀

View all 116 comments

user bruh 😐

user This is crazy wtf i’d be pissed if i were y/n

user CAMILLE AND NOT Y/N BYEE i’m sliding down the wall punching the air sobbing bc what the hell

user i’m going insane contemplating the possibility that y/n and charles were always just friends and never had any intentions to get back together

user not what i wanted to see first thing in the morning ��

user guys was it all in our heads

[justdavina]

Aëla Chane: I LOVE HER SO MUCH!!!

First runner-up of the 2019 edition, Aëla Chanel is named Miss T France in 2020. Originally from Isère, the beautiful redhead holds a double Master's degree in Luxury Marketing and Fashion Management from SKEMA Business School.

Aëla enjoys a very good reputation among the Parisian transgender community, who follow her on social networks. The young woman also participated in the documentary documentary Trans, unique in their kind, presented by Karine Lemarchand and the M6 ​​Group in September 2022.

Our Miss T France 2020 also came as a finalist at Miss International Queen 2022 and Miss T World 2022. She is the first candidate recognized by a national delegation to represent France on the international stage.

[ofmdrecaps]

08/28-29/2024 Daily OFMD Recap

TLDR; David Jenkins; Rhys Darby; Ruibo Qian; Vico Ortiz; Ruibo Qian; Nat Torres; Eliza Cossio; Madeleine Sami; Damien Gerard; Cortney Andersen; Call To Action: Yahoo Survey; Love Notes; Daily Darby/Today's Taika;

== Recap Status ==

Hey friends, my dad finally had surgery and he's alive but there are complications. I've compiled what I can for these two days, idk how useful it is. I'll try to get more done tonight since so much happened today but I'm not sure how far I'll get. Sending hugs and good vibes <3 Thank you for all the kind words and folks checking on me, sorry I'm slow to respond, been a lot the last few days. Pardon me for any mistakes, please feel free to let me know if there are.

== David Jenkins ==

David's mom Mary was just named US Open Employee of the Month! Congrats Mrs. Jenkins!

David retweeted this old post by Liam Gallagher <3

David Jenkins twitter

== Rhys Darby ==

= Cryptid Factor: Live in Edinburgh =

Rhys and the boys have posted a a partial video of the first night of The Cryptid Factor Live <3 Check it out on their patreon.

Source: The Cryptid Factor Patreon

The episode of Expedition X with Rhys is out on Discovery!

Source: Phil Torres Instagram

Rhys is being the best band manager Murray and promoting his son Finn's band! You can follow them on Youtube!

Source: Rhys Darby's Twitter

Yes, Rhys Darby has worn a kilt, take that information and do with it what you will <3

Source: @wastingyourgum's Twitter

== Ruibo Qian ==

The Pirate Queen is playing around with filters and having a good time <3

Source: Ruibo's Instagram Stories

== Vico Ortiz ==

Vico made a shoutout to our beloved Samson <3

Source: Vico Ortiz Instagram

== Minnie Driver ==

New hair cut for our Anne Bonny!

Source: Minnie Driver's Instagram

== Madeleine Sami ==

More Double Parked BTS/promos from Mads and Crew!

Source: Madeleine Sami's Instagram

== Nat Torres ==

I forgot about the other dogs that the cast posted for International Dog Day back on the 26th! Here's one of our awesome writers, Nat Torres' beautiful pup <3

Source: Nat Torres Instagram Stories

== Eliza Cossio ==

Another one of our writers we don't see out and about too often has made an appearance! We miss you Eliza! So good to see you having fun!

Source: Elisa Cossio's Instagram

== Courtney Andersen ==

Happy International Dog day from Courtney, The Revenge's rope maker and his pup! (David popped in to wish the Prince well too!)

Source: Courtney Andersens Instagram

== Damien Gerard ==

Happy Acting Anniversary to our dear Father Teach! <3

Source: Damien Gerard's Twitter

== Call to Action: Yahoo Feedback ==

Thank you to our friend Lucy over on twitter for bringing this to everyone's attention!

Source: Lucy on Twitter

== Love Notes ==

Sorry I don't have a lot in me right now to get the fan spotlight section together lovelies. I hope you're doing so well and staying healthy. I think about you all all the time. I found a few things that made me smile/had some good vibes, sending them along to you. Take care lovelies <3

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A post shared by bailey ☻ (@anxiety.positive)

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A post shared by Studio After Cigs (@st.aftercigs)

== Daily Darby / Today's Taika ==

Smiles and chats for our guys tonight. Gifs courtesy of the so very talented @eddie-redcliffe and @celluloidbroomcloset

[dreamingofep]

Strangers in the Crowd pt.6

(Elvis/Austin!Elvis × reader)

Character/Fandom: Elvis - Elvis (2022)

Request: No, just another one of my delusional fantasies.

Prompt: You and your best friend are on are annual girls trip and go to see Elvis at the International. Little did you know this would be a show you'll never forget. Fem!Reader

TW: SMUTTT, cussing, fingering (f. receiving) teasing/ tension, phone sex, the usual really dirty stuff.

Rating: Explicit/Mature (NSFW, 18+, so minors Do NOT Interact)

Word Count: 2.5k

A/N: Hi lovlies. Hope you enjoy this next part! I had fun writing this🤭 Sorry for any spelling mistakes or overall goofs.

Feel free to message me or comment what you think!

The days dragged on and you waited patiently for Elvis to call. Time seemed to slow down when you were without him and ached to be in his arms once more. You were relatively quiet considering all the crazy events that happened in Vegas and Cicily noticed. You weren’t normally so reserved around her and not much else interested you other than schoolwork.

Even that was something you could barely focus on. You were waiting patiently for Elvis’ phone call. A week went by and your phone didn’t ring other than your parents checking up on you and seeing how you were doing. You couldn’t dare mention the fact that you met Elvis to your parents considering they still thought that he was the devil in disguise or something. He left a lasting impression on them with the shows he would put on in the 50s and they had their mind made up about him. You were exceptionally close to your mother and always have been. Even though you lived an hour away from home, you always called her every night to tell her about your day. You missed her so much and did want to tell her you met Elvis at least. But you just weren’t ready. Especially since you hadn’t heard from him, you didn’t want to tell your mom just for it to turn into a lecture that you shouldn’t have given him the light of day in the first place.

Another week went by and you were starting to give up hope. You knew how crazy his schedule was and it wasn’t like you expected him to be on the phone with you every waking second. But you longed to hear his voice, longed to hear your name slip off the tip of his tongue and hear how much he missed you. You felt completely delusional considering the circumstances, but his words continued to echo in your head.

I want you…

You’re mine…

Stay with me…

It gave you chills with how possessive he became and another part of you liked it too much. You wanted all of that to be true. You wanted to stay with him and be whisked away in this fantasy of being the King’s Queen, being chauffeured all around Vegas for everyone to see.

One Saturday night, you had the apartment to yourself and it was another late night of studying. You did your best to focus and study but your eye wanders to the phone sitting on the side table by the couch. It was silly really, trying to will the phone to ring but on nights like these, you would give anything to talk to Elvis. You glance over at the clock and see it's 2 am. You sigh and start paying attention to your book and continue your notes.

Suddenly, the shrill ring of the phone makes you jump in the otherwise silent room. Your heart pounds in your chest and you shove your books aside. Your mind races and you just know it's Elvis calling. You jump over to the couch and pick it up on the second ring.

“Hello?” Your voice is shakey and low.

“Hi, honey it’s me. How are you?” The deep sultry baritone comes through crystal clear through the receiver and a big smile forms across your face.

“Hi Elvis, I’m doing a lot better now,” you say cutely, “how are you over there? How are the shows going?”

He chuckles softly, “The shows have been going really well. Every audience is different and are always so excited. It’s been really fun. God, it’s good to hear your voice. I’ve missed ya.”

Your heart melts at his words. You needed to hear his voice more than you thought and are so thankful he finally called.

“I’ve missed you too honey. I was beginning to think you forgot about me,” you say coyly.

“Aw now honey I could never do that. I’m sorry I didn’t call sooner. Things were hectic here. I promise to do better.”

“No, I understand dear. No need to apologize,” you pause as you try to find the right words to say next, “I’m sure you were really busy with all the other girls you were kissing,” you say sarcastically.

Elvis gives a snide laugh, “now honey you know when I go through the crowd it’s just an act. Doesn’t mean anything to me. Not like how it meant with you. It was so much more with you,” he says low.

You blush at his words and grow the biggest smile on your face. You can’t help snickering at this all.

“Hmm, I know honey. I just wanted to mess with ya. I do miss you so much. You’re all I think about,” you gush.

He hums softly into the receiver and agrees with you.

“Me too honey. I miss you in my bed and waking up to the feeling of you next to me,” he says with temptation.

You sigh, “I would love that more than anything right now.”

“What weekend are you free? I’d love you here when I get back to Graceland,” he asks.

“Next weekend I am completely free if that’s okay with you?” You ask timidly.

“That’s perfect. I’ll send a plane for you.” He pauses briefly, “I’d come and get you right now if you wanted. I just need to see you. You have no idea…” he trails off.

A chill runs through your body as you hear him confess how much he’s been needing you. It’s all too good to be true, you think, so you prod for more information.

“Yeah? You really need me?” You ask shyly.

“Oh yes, darlin'. Morning, noon, and night. Just miss having you with me. Talkin’ to ya, holdin’ ya, among other things,” he quips.

“Mhmm me too honey. I’ve been having dreams about you.”

“Me too baby. Been looking at those pictures you’ve left me…” he trails off in thought.

“Oh? What have you been doing with those pictures?” You tease him, you have an innocence in your voice to throw him off but you want him to divulge further.

You hear a muffled sigh on the other end of the line and a brief pause.

“Well, sometimes when I miss you I take out those pictures from my nightstand and am in awe when I see how beautiful you are. Just every inch of you is perfect. And sometimes…” he pauses.

“What honey?” You say softly.

“Well, sometimes I get hard just looking at them. Wanting you so damn much,” he declared.

You take a deep breath in. Your heart flutters at the idea of Elvis being so aroused by the sight of you.

“I want you too Elvis. I need you bad too,” you confess. “Umm… what else happens when you look at those pictures…” you ask unsure if you’re going too far.

“If you really want to know,” he pauses and you hum in assurance. “I start to stroke my cock in my hand and think of you fucking me.”

You open your mouth in shock at what you’re hearing and a soft moan escapes your lips.

“Oh, Elvis I-,” you are at a loss of words and try to find the right ones. “That sounds so good. I wish I was there to help you. I know you feel so good,” you say in a hushed whisper.

He hums in amusement, “Mmm thank you, baby. I need you bad. Got me hard right now just thinking about that tight pussy.” He growls.

You gasp and feel the throb in your core begin to form. “Fuck Elvis please,” you moan into the phone.

“What are you wearing darlin’?” He asks. You pause and look down at your body. The soft baby blue nightgown hugs your body and accentuates your full breasts with lace at the trim.

“Just a nightgown honey,” you say as your breathing starts to quicken.

“What about any panties?” He asks.

You bite your lip and your grip on the phone tightens.

“No, no panties on tonight. I don’t sleep with any,” you tease. He gruffly sighs and you lean back into the couch, bending one of your legs up and resting like that on the couch.

“Mmm naughty girl as usual,” he scoffs. “Making this very difficult for me to not get goin’ right now,” another moan leaves your mouth and your thoughts begin to race as you picture how good he must look with his cock in his hand.

“But I like it when you’re hard for me baby,” you coo angelically. “I like it when you get off to me.”

He murmurs a few expletives and you hear him take a deep breath in.

“How wet are you right now baby? Tell me what I’m missing,” he commands.

Another electric shock works its way through your body and straight to your throbbing core. Your hands slide down your nightgown and pick up the soft silk fabric, exposing your core to the cool air. Goosebumps travel along your legs and body as you get ready for what you’re about to do. Your index and middle finger glide through your sopping folds and moan as you rub them on your clit, sending another shock in your body.

“I’m soaked honey, my fingers are covered. You would love how this feels,” You tease. He groans at your words.

“Oh god honey, I can imagine. I want to be there so bad.”

You continue to run slow circles on your throbbing bud and want him to keep going.

“You jerking your cock wishing it was me?” You say innocently.

A deep guttural moan comes from him and you hear him breathing through his mouth.

“Yes, baby. Got me so hard and throbbing too. I want to fuck the shit out of you and hear you moan for me,” he proclaims.

You gasp wanting every last word to come true.

“God please Elvis, you’re killing me,” you grunt frustratedly.

“Keep playing with yourself, baby. Keep that pussy nice and wet for me,” he commands.

You work your fingers faster and moan his name. He groans at the sound of you and mutters under his breath.

“The next time I see you, I’m going to take you upstairs to my room and ravage you for hours.” You start to lean your head on the back of the sofa and close your eyes as you picture everything he is offering you.

“Put your fingers inside you now baby. Imagine how good it’s going to feel when my cock is buried deep inside you,” he hisses low.

You cry out for him, needing him more than anything in this world. You glide your fingers through your folds and carefully plunge them inside of you. You let out another moan and breathe heavily.

“I want you, Elvis,” you contest with an airy sigh. You move your fingers slowly at first, feeling your taught walls squeeze around your fingers.

“I want you more honey. You should see how hard I am for you I need it so bad,” he says between his teeth.

You start to curl your fingers and plunge them deeper inside you, hitting that spot that can make you see stars. You squeeze your eyes tighter and let out sighs and gasps as you continue these motions. More wetness spills out of you causing your pussy to make wet, squelching sounds come out of you.

The line is completely silent as you are doing this then you hear Elvis groan primally.

“Fuck mama I can hear how wet you are over there. Sounding so good. Got me pumping my cock harder and everything for you.”

You cry out in frustration, needing him to take care of you right now, reaching all the places that he only knows.

“Agh, baby I want you. Keep fucking yourself I wanna hear you cum and everything,” you gasp out as your back starts to arch as you’re bringing yourself closer to climax.

“You’re gonna cum first honey. I want to hear you scream my name and everything. Just keep fingering yourself and think about how much you love this cock inside you.” He urges.

You put the receiver down on your thigh and use your other hand to work your clit, sending the perfect amount of pleasure through your body. You moan and feel your coil in your belly tighten exponentially ready to release any second. Even though the phone rests on your leg, you can hear Elvis moaning and cussing as you’re bringing yourself to climax.

You put the phone back to your ear and can barely form the words you want to tell him.

“Elvis I-I-I’m gonna cum. I wanna cum for you,” you sputter.

Another deep groan comes from him and he hums, “Please cum for me. Let me hear you,” he begs.

Your fingers work faster as you pump and curl them inside you deeper. You feel the coil snap and you scream out in ecstasy, letting the high wash over you. Your walls clench around your slender fingers as more wetness spills out of you and onto your nightgown. You hear him moan on the other end of the line as you beg for him.

“Such a good girl baby. I love hearing you cum for me,” he grunts. You’re legs begin to shake as you continue to orgasm, your entire body on edge and you start to gasp for air.

Elvis continues to moan and cuss for you, hearing you come down from your high.

“Ah, I’m gonna cum darlin’. Fuuucckk-,” he groans over and over and breathes heavily into the phone. His gruff voice sends chills throughout you and makes you needier than you could have ever possibly imagined. He begins to catch his breath again and you whimper as you take your fingers out of yourself.

“You did so good mama, so good. Made me an absolute mess,” he teases.

You can’t help but chuckle at him, “oh I bet honey. I’m probably just as much of a mess. I cannot wait to see you next week you have no idea,” you exclaim.

“Hmmm me too baby. But if you think you're a mess now, I don’t know what you’ll think once I’m done fucking you. I’m gonna make that pussy all mine again,” he vows.

You gulp sharply and take a deep breath. This man is going to drive you insane, you think. His dirty talk alone makes you want to tear your clothes off. You have never experienced such a powerful and alluring man that has you hanging on every single word he has to say.

“You promise?” You whine.

Another dark groan comes from the line and it makes your heart skip a beat.

“Oh yeah, I promise baby. I’m gonna make you beg for it,” he says devilishly.

You can’t help but smile as he says that and shake your head.

“Oh it’ll take a lot for me to beg Elvis,” you stipulate deviously.

Another subtle chuckle comes from him and it grows silent on the line, “the weekend cannot get here any faster to show you what I mean.”

Tagging 💜:

@powerofelvis @plasticfantasticIOver @burninlovebutler @kendralavon7 @ab4eva @cryingabtab @peaceloveelvis @returntoelvis @woundmetender @thatbanditqueen @kaitaesupremacy @18Ikpeters @lookingforrainbows @presleysdarling @marriedtopresley @missmaywemeetagain @literally-just-elvis-fics @flwrs4aust @prayerstopresley @kiankiwi @elvisbf @austinswhitewolf @tkappi @thatgirlarabella @arianatheangel-girl @myradiaz @homer1960 @waiting4brucewayne2adoptme @cinnamonandmercury @ohjustpeachy

[xmoonlitxdreamx]

OW2 Junkrat & Roadhog Relationship (part 4)

Part 1: [click] Part 2: [click] Part 3: [click] Part 5: [click]

Helloooo I'm here with another long post lol. I'll be looking at Junkrat's OW2 profile in this post! I got kind of distracted with my goal because I also wanted to compare the current profile to his old OW1 profile, so the goals of this post are:

to point out any changes made to Junkrat's OW2 profile compared to his OW1 profile, and the implications of those changes

to summarize how Junkrat and Roadhog's relationship is characterized in Junkrat's current OW2 profile (including any information carried over from his OW1 profile)

Since I'm doing like two things at once in this post, my points kind of jump around a bit LOL;; hopefully it's still interesting to read though. I also put links to both the OW1 and the OW2 profile under the cut.

Anyway, feel free to read if you're interested! A summary is at the end of the post as usual for anyone who doesn't want to read my individual bullet points. ^^

---

OW1 profile: archived here, sourced from 9/17/2022 (soon before OW2 was released; though I also checked the 2016 profile and it was exactly the same)

OW2 profile: referenced the current version on 7/4/2024 for this post, available here

OW1: “Junkrat is an explosives-obsessed freak who lives to cause chaos and destruction.”

OW2: “Junrkat is an explosives-obsessed demolitionist who lives to cause chaos and destruction. […] Growing up in the irradiated wasteland surrounding Junkertown, Junkrat is an unhinged, explosives-obsessed oddity.”

Softening of Junkrat’s characterization in OW2 (he’s no longer a called freak, but an oddity).

Also refers to him as a demolitionist (instead of a freak), emphasizing a scientist/mechanic angle to his character.

The demolitionist bit is on his OW1 profile, but as a bullet point under "occupation"; I actually missed this my first time reading it lol my bad

Removes some agency from Junkrat’s actions in the OW2 description (implicitly blaming his unhinged personality on growing up in irradiated Australia).

The “Junker” section on OW2 profile is exactly the same as paragraphs from his OW1 profile. (No analysis here because there’s nothing about Junkrat and Roadhog’s relationship)

First half of the "Wanted Criminal" section in the OW2 profile is exactly the same as his OW1 profile. The new elements of his profile start at the line “After a string of offenses…”

OW2: “After a string of offenses against the Junker Queen, Junkrat and Roadhog were officially exiled from Junkertown.” (no parallel section in OW1 profile)

This is probably in reference to the OW1 cinematic The Plan, where Junkrat and Roadhog are shown to be thrown out of Junkertown after causing Junker Queen trouble:

Junkrat: “Well, that’s a fine how-do-you-do. What was it you think that got us the boot?  Stealing the queen’s cash? Blowing up her summer shack? The beat down at the bar? Whatever it was, you really ticked off the big boss this time. I don't think they're gonna let us back in.”

Tbh this kind of conflicts with the plot of A Friendly Rivalry, where it looks like Junker Queen intended to execute them for a completely different set of offenses against her rather than exile them.

OW1: “Now, with Roadhog in tow, Junkrat has left the Outback, and embarked upon an international crime spree leaving nothing but havoc and bedlam in his wake.”

OW2: “They turned their sights beyond the Outback to embark upon an international crime spree, leaving nothing but havoc and bedlam in their wake.”

OW2 description has been changed slightly to include Roadhog more explicitly; the two of them both decided to leave Junkertown together, and they wreak havoc during their crime spree together (instead of the implication in OW1 that Junkrat did the crime spree primarily on his own with Roadhog sidelined).

OW2: “’No job too big, no score too small.’” (no parallel section in OW1 profile)

I think this is the originator of this phrase in OW2, seems to be intended as Junkrat and Roadhog’s tagline; it’s possible it was added specifically for OW2? Unless I’m misremembering. Feel free to correct me if this phrase is used in reference to Junkrat and Roadhog somewhere else too.

As I mentioned in my Roadhog voiceline post, Roadhog references this tagline in one of his voice lines (I think it was a summer games voice line or something)… I’m not sure which came first.

Regardless it’s interesting that Roadhog references something specifically from Junkrat’s OW2 profile. Again I think this reiterates that Roadhog is at least aware of how Junkrat conceptualizes them as partners in crime.

OW2: “Though they racked up a considerable bounty on their heads, they’ve been able to evade capture through the very same methods they’ve used to acquire such a bounty: mainly those involving loads and loads of bombs.” (No parallel section in OW1 profile)

Uses “they” (aka Junkrat and Roadhog) as the subjects/agents of the sentences, emphasizing that Junkrat and Roadhog do everything together.

Junkrat and Roadhog’s schemes primarily utilize bombs, suggesting Junkrat is the main person in charge of their crime spree plans (since Roadhog’s arsenal doesn’t include bombs iirc)

This sentence also kind of implies that even though they get into a lot of trouble because of Junkrat, Junkrat is also the one with the resourcefulness allowing them to evade that trouble. (? weird sentence)

Other Junkrat and Roadhog relationship notes (based on elements found in both the OW1 and OW2 profiles):

“…[Junkrat] was nonetheless pursued by bounty hunters, gangs, and opportunists wherever he went, until he made a deal with the Junker enforcer Roadhog, who grudgingly agreed to be his personal bodyguard in exchange for a fifty-fifty share of the spoils.”

Junkrat was in danger because of his treasure and partnered up with Roadhog primarily for protection against this danger.

This is reiterated in the OW1 comic Wasted Land, where Junkrat is getting mugged by some of Junker Queen’s men and asks Roadhog to save him for a share of his treasure.

The notion of Junkrat being pursued by bounty hunters/etc is somewhat contradicted in the OW2 short story A Friendly Rivalry, where Junkertown citizens seem unimpressed with Junkrat’s not-so-secret treasure. Junker Queen even says “No one cares about your treasure.”

Roadhog’s primary motivation indicated here for having partnered with Junkrat is the 50% share of Junkrat’s treasure that he’ll get for being his body guard (“grudgingly agreed” = he doesn’t want to partner with Junkrat but he does want treasure)

Iirc this is slightly contested in OW1’s Wasted Land where Roadhog internally remarks “The world deserves him. Deserves both of us” or something, implying he has other philosophical reasons for choosing to be Junkrat’s bodyguard.

This profile leans slightly in Junkrat’s perspective, hence why Roadhog’s internal motivation from Wasted Land would not be revealed here. I'll talk about it in another post, but Roadhog's profile does slightly imply that he has reasons other than Junkrat's treasure for teaming up with Junkrat; so this could just mean that Junkrat is unaware of Roadhog's real reasons for partnering with him.

Summary

Junkrat's OW2 profile does not characterize Junkrat as harshly as his OW1 profile (they don't call him a freak anymore). More blame is placed on Junkrat's life in irradiated Australia as the cause for his erratic behavior. He also has a slightly scientific angle added to his character. The OW2 profile references events from The Plan, but does not reference events from A Friendly Rivalry. Roadhog is specifically described as being hired as Junkrat's "personal bodyguard"--the profile suggests that Roadhog's main motivation for being Junkrat's bodyguard is so he can have a share of Junkrat's treasure. Junkrat's desire for protection is also indicated as his main motivator for initially partnering with Roadhog.

Some pronoun usage in the OW2 profile slightly emphasizes Junkrat and Roadhog's status as a duo compared to the OW1 profile. The catchphrase "no job too big, no score to small" is introduced here, which Roadhog also references in one of his voice lines. The two of them are described as being able to evade authorities using "loads and loads of bombs," suggesting Junkrat is the one primarily in charge of the duo's plans. This also suggests that Junkrat has some success in keeping the two of them from getting caught.

This profile raises some lore inconsistencies when compared with events described in A Friendly Rivalry--the profile describes Junkrat as someone constantly pursued by bounty hunters/etc for his treasure, while A Friendly Rivalry suggests that no one in Junkertown actually cares about Junkrat's treasure (until they learn what it is). It is unclear which of these suggestions should be taken as canon.

----

Anyway!!! That’s that. I’ll make a separate post about Roadhog’s OW2 profile just to keep things organized. (I’ve already written it; I’ll post it in a little bit... Tbh Roadhog’s profile is a little more interesting than Junkrat’s.) But yeah, thanks again for reading!

Part 1: [click] Part 2: [click] Part 3: [click] Part 5: [click]

[moonflower-rose]

In-keeping with .. well.. my whole life really, I’d like to know about the food one please! Food fair 2022? 😘💕

Hiiiiiiiiiiiiii!

Shamefully, I signed up at the eleventh hour for this fest, wrote 3K, got distracted by the fact that I was throwing a massive 40th birthday party and totally missed the fest - like totally missed it, not just the deadline, I literally didn't open my emails for like two months and then it was like 'ohhhhh...fuck.'

This was the prompt I claimed:

Prompt #34 Claimed for Fic Only Food Theme: British foods/snacks Travel Theme: Import shop in a Commonwealth country Scenario: In 2002, Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her Golden Jubilee. Down on his luck, Draco finds a job in a Muggle pop-up import shop set up for the Queen’s visit (your choice of one of the Commonwealth countries she visited that year: Jamaica, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada). Harry is either visiting or living in the same country and goes looking for his favourite British treats. Optional Additions: Homesick Harry. Draco makes shit up about the British Royal Family when he talks to customers. Enough Union Jack-themed stuff to bury a palace Era: EWE | Ignores Epilogue Maximum Rating: Left up to creator

And below the snip is a little preview of the beast itself.

Kylie Minogue had a lot to answer for.

If Harry was being fair he would probably have admitted it was his own responsibility to thoroughly research a place he was planning a holiday to, and possibly not the responsibility of  Kylie Minogue, international pop star, to educate him on the subject. 

And Harry, in this theoretical version of reality where he was being fair and reasonable, had to admit he’d done absolutely no research on Australia beyond what he’d seen on episodes of Neighbours or Home and Away over the years at the Dursleys (from his vantage point between the fins of an air vent in the door of his cupboard or sometimes leaning over the bannister at the top of the stairs to strain for a look at the television). Or the occasional packet of Muggle photographs that Hermione enthusiastically shared when they’d come in the post from her parents, with bright pictures of beaches in places like Perth, Western Australia (rather different from the bleak greyness of Perth, Scotland). And that would be stretching the definition of ‘research’ to unrecognisable lengths.

On the other hand (and it was very important to consider all sides of an issue, Hermione’d always said so), Harry’d never had a reason to look up Australia at the library during school, and he hadn’t set foot in one since then either (in fact, he’d made a strenuous effort not to study at all if he could help it). Not knowing things about Australia was not uncommon, and it certainly wasn’t irresponsible (in a general, day-to-day sense); not like not knowing the Muggle road rules would be irresponsible, or not knowing the name of the current Minister for Magic. There was no expectation that the average Englishman should have any baseline knowledge about Australia. Harry had a normal amount of Australia-based information. And that amount was none.

Of course, going to a library was not his only option. Hermione’d set him up with the internet eventually, and helped him buy a computer, but he hadn’t got the hang of using either yet beyond playing Solitaire, and reading all the chain emails that Ron kept sending him about Nigerian princes who needed help getting access to their inheritance, or the ones that claimed if you didn’t send this message along to ten new people your penis would shrink to the size of an acorn and you’d have bad luck for the rest of your life. Harry’d had enough bad luck, and certainly wasn’t willing to risk his penis, so he always forwarded. You couldn’t be too careful.

But cumulatively, that left Harry with hardly any time to do research, and thus a rather short list of things he knew about Australia before he impulsively booked himself on what he’d described to Ginny as a ‘maybe a week, maybe forever’ holiday.

What Harry knew about Australia up to and including the moment he cleared Customs and Border Control had been as follows:

1 - Christmas was in the summer there, and a lunch of beer and seafood followed by an afternoon lazing around on the beach sounded kind of exciting after twenty-one years of snow and roast dinners, and more recently, mulled wine.

2 - The weather was always sunny and perfect, even in the middle of winter.

3 - The spiders were big and the snakes enormous.

4 - Nobody had heard of The Boy Who Lived, there.

There was nothing wrong with a bit of snow and a roast dinner (England could keep the mulled wine), and frankly, as appealing as prawns by the ocean sounded it would mean giving up Christmas at the Burrow and knitted Weasley jumpers, and there was nothing Harry could think of that would be worth missing that. Ron had been relieved to hear it, and was far more receptive once they’d got that cleared up.

“I’d come with you, you know,” Ron had said. He’d then stuffed most of a ham and cheese croissant into his mouth in one go and anything else he’d intended to say was muffled by pork and dairy.

“I know you would,” Harry’d said. “I just want to try doing something by myself for a change that’s not inherently dangerous.”

Ron understood, a bit, being one of many brothers.

Escaping the gloom of London in winter generally, and the never-ending microscope of the Daily Prophet specifically, was becoming less of a ‘nice to have’ and more of an essential for life. Both were wearing on Harry’s spirit, more and more as each year passed. His temper had never been thinner and he flinched every time there was a flash of light, which was especially problematic in the lead up to Christmas because there were quite a number of flashing lights around that time of year. So that was how Harry found himself on one particularly cold afternoon in late January, casually slipping on a Glamour and popping into the wizarding travel agency on Quizzic Alley to book himself an international Portkey to Melbourne, Australia, departing two weeks from the day and with an open-ended return date.

“Oh, Harry!” Hermione had gripped his hand tightly enough to hurt a little bit. “I’m very pleased for you. I’m a bit nervous about you going by yourself—I’d come with you, if you wanted me to.”

“Of course you would.” He’d squeezed back as best as he was able, but he’d started to lose feeling in his knuckles. “I’ll be alright—I’ll be great.”

While not in possession of much of a plan and even less practical knowledge, Harry hadn’t picked Melbourne completely at random either. Australia was actually perfect for what he was looking for, which was to do something a bit different and to do it completely anonymously, but not to bite off more than he could chew all in one go.

A couple of years ago, pretty much right after Hogwarts, Dean and Seamus had gone to America. The Gryffindor’s all expected that it would be for a good long while (years at the very least) but they were both back within six months, and Dean had told Harry once over beers at the Leaky that he couldn’t explain why exactly, but he’d struggled to shake off a feeling of not-rightness the whole time they were there. The money looked strange, the bread was weird, none of his shows were on the telly, and he found he missed the sound of an English accent so much that it ached inside. Hermione said it was something called ‘culture shock’, and Dean had said he’d never considered that it would happen to him, and certainly not in America.

That story was front of mind as Harry’d leaned over a pile of brochures at the travel agent’s and pushed aside Contiki tours by enchanted bus, carriage, boat or carpet, as well as locations which were both tempting and exotic. He didn’t want a cookie cutter tour - that was about the only thing he did know, that he didn’t want that. He could go to Brazil and see the beaches and the football and the amazing architecture. Or he could go to Cambodia and see the temples and jungles and elephants. He could go to Iceland and see…ice, probably. There were a million amazing things he could do in the world, but Harry had to remember a couple of fairly key factors:

1 - He had, rather recently, been through a pretty traumatic life event and his inner reservoir of resilience was at an all time low.

2 - Although he’d been on a number of pretty crazy adventures, he’d never really been out of the United Kingdom, and in fact had rarely ventured beyond either Surrey or Hogsmead.

3 - Per the previous two points, he’d spent quite a lot of his life in a cupboard.

4 - This time, he’d be really and truly on his own.

What it boiled down to was that Harry didn’t want to push himself too hard too fast, and ruin what would hopefully be a life changing experience. Life changing in a good way, for once. 

Everything, including being on the run and sleeping in a tent in a forest while plotting to kill an evil wizard, was a lot easier when you had your friends with you. Honestly, Harry wasn’t entirely sure he would have got anywhere near killing Voldemort without Hermione and Ron. He’d never really had the luxury of easing himself into anything before, and if Dean and Seamus had struggled to cope with America together, Harry wasn’t confident that he’d be any better hanging off the side of a mountain somewhere, or sweating his way through a market in Morocco.

In Australia he could be a stranger in a strange land, except it wouldn’t be too strange since everyone spoke English (of a sort—Australians seemed to do rather odd things to their vowels) and used similar money, and there would be food that he recognised, and television he was used to. It was a massive step out of his comfort zone while still being not that different from his life in England. He’d watched the soaps so often over the years (or rather, listened to them from his cupboard or behind the locked door of his bedroom) that it felt like he’d practically lived there already, and suburban Melbourne seemed like it really wasn’t all that dissimilar to life in Little Whinging if Neighbours was any indication. Cul-de-sacs and nosy neighbours, and supermarkets and telly, and nosy old ladies named Madge. Just like Surrey, but warmer and with bigger spiders.

The food would be familiar, which was good, but Hermione kept saying Australia was a very multicultural place so he’d have plenty of opportunity to try all the things he’d wondered about, like sushi and dumplings, and pad thai, and scallops. You could get those things in London too, but Harry didn’t fancy the front page spread of him spitting a mussel out into a napkin that he would have got at home. Vegemite. Prawns. Those little brown bottles of bitter. It gave him a flutter of excitement in his chest.

Hermione’d said he should get the Lonely Planet guide, so Harry had, but never bothered to read it. What was the point? It wasn’t like he was headed to Vietnam, or Uruguay, or Bangladesh (was Bangladesh a country or a city?). Melbourne was basically a smaller version of London, but with more sunshine and a lazier speech pattern. It was going to be great.

Kylie Minogue really should have warned him.

[celebrity-styleinfluence]

LANCE RAYMUNDO BECOMES FIRST FILIPINO TO HOST MISS UNIVERSE INDIA | CAPTIVATES MILLIONS WITH CHARM AND STYLE

Rhea Singha| MISS UNIVERSE INDIA 2024

Rhea Singha| MISS UNIVERSE INDIA 2024MISS UNIVERSE INDIA 2024  CORONATION NIGHTwas held at Zee Studios in Jaipur, a spectacular showcase of talent, beauty, & empowerment.  Among 51 finalists, Rhea Singha, a 19-year-old model from Gujarat, claimed the prestigious title of Miss Universe India 2024.  Her charm, intelligence, and advocacy for social change, through her initiative Work Ready with Rhea, helped her secure the crown. 

She will now represent India at the Miss Universe 2024 competition in Mexico on November 16, 2024.                                     

RHEA SINGHA | MISS UNIVERSE INDIA 2024 & LANCE RAYMUNDO

ONE of the most notable aspects of the event was the historic debut of Filipino actor and celebrity host Lance Raymundo, who became the first Filipino to co-host the Miss Universe India pageant. Lance, known for his magnetic stage presence and deep experience in the entertainment industry, brought an international flair to the night. His seamless hosting skills, confidence, and charisma left a lasting impression on the audience. Lance’s presence at such a prestigious event marks an important moment in global pageantry, reflecting the growing inclusivity and cross-cultural connections in beauty competitions.

Ngo Ngoc Gia Han from Vietnam who won | Miss Teen International 2022, co-hosted the event alongside Lance. Her grace and poise perfectly complemented Lance's energy, making them a dynamic duo on stage. Together, they created an electric atmosphere, guiding the evening’s events with professionalism and style. 

Adding to the glamour of the night was Urvashi Rautela, the only person in Indian history to win Miss Universe India twice. As a member of the jury, Urvashi, alongside Nikhil Anand, founder and chairman of the Glamanand Group, crowned the new queen, Rhea Singha. Under Anand's leadership, the Glamanand Group has redefined Indian pageantry by promoting diversity and empowerment, and this year's competition reflected that commitment.

URVASHI RAUTEL

NIKHIL ANAND

This grand event, broadcast live on YouTube, reached millions of viewers worldwide. With Rhea’s crowning and Lance’s remarkable debut as a host, the spotlight now turns to Miss Universe 2024, where India will shine on the global stage.

[burmanana]

Today's Highlight, Myo Ko Ko San: Burmese model/actress, LGBT rights activist and beauty pageant titleholder

She is first transgender model in Myanmar and won Miss International Queen Myanmar in 2014 and ASEAN - LGBT Community Pride Awards in 2018. She is also the first transgender woman to compete in Miss Universe Myanmar was placed at Top 10 in 2022. Myo has also regularly advocated for transgender and gay rights in Myanmar.

I love seeing Burmese women being empowered... I am really looking forward to following her career and watching her grow in the entertainment industry!!!

[themakeupbrush]

Miss International Vietnam 2022 National Costume 

Inspired by the legend of Hoa Trang Nguyen and the story of the first poinsettia in the medieval period Nguyen Thi Due, also known as the "Star Queen".

The national costume retains the shape of the traditional Ao Dai and comes with accessories such as: a round design like a halo of excellence, a shield on the shoulders, and a decorated body. The architectures from the statues of the Ly Dynasty to the Nguyen Dynasty are embossed and carved with extremely diverse feathers. 

[conandaily2022]

Dortmund, Germany's Jasmin Selberg crowned Miss International 2022 in Tokyo, Japan

Dortmund, Germany’s Jasmin Selberg crowned Miss International 2022 in Tokyo, Japan

Jasmin Selberg, 22, of Dortmund, Germany is Miss International 2022. She was crowned at Tokyo Dome City Hall in Tokyo, Japan on December 13, 2022.

[mrsweet1]

Engfa Waraha, also known by the nickname Mook (meaning "Pearl"), is a talented Thai woman who has achieved success in both music and beauty pageants. Here's a quick introduction:

Musician: Born into a musical family, Engfa started performing on stage at the young age of six. She even participated in the seventh season of the popular singing competition, The Voice Thailand.

Beauty Queen: Engfa's journey in pageantry truly took off in 2022. Representing Bangkok, she won the Miss Grand Thailand title, becoming the national winner. She then went on to represent Thailand at Miss Grand International 2022, where she impressively placed as the first runner-up.

If you'd like to learn more about Engfa, here are some specific details to explore further:

Her early career and journey into music

Her experience at Miss Grand Thailand and Miss Grand International (you might even find videos of her introduction or performance on [YouTube])

Her work as a LGBTQ+ advocate (a cause she passionately supports)

[alj4890]

The Christmas Card

A Choices: The Royal Romance Drabble for CFWC Holidays 2022 prompts

(Liam x Madeleine) (Liam x Riley)

Prompt: A holiday card is delivered twenty years after it was sent.

Rating G for holiday fluff, brief mentions of a death of a parent and spouse

@gkittylove99 @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @yourmajesty09 @mom2000aggie @ofpixelsandscribbles @twinkleallnight @lodberg  @amandablink @neotericthemis  @mm2305 @sfb123 @tessa-liam @thesvnsins @krsnlove @choicesficwriterscreations

A/N: Not a part of any of my AU's, but this was the first inspiration I've had since RCD Appreciation Week ended 😂 So here we go.

Masterlist

The Royal Palace, Cordonia...

"The mail, your majesty."

Liam gave a brief nod to the footman as he continued to peruse a report from Kiara about her ongoing trade negotiation with Greece.

"Father?"

He looked up at the sound of his daughter's voice.

Her eyes were narrowed somewhat in concern. She was already dressed for the evening's holiday event. The deep hunter green of her velvet evening gown set off her vibrant eyes and golden hair.

His expression softened instantly at the sight of her.

"You look lovely, Charlotte."

She smiled as she came into the room.

"Thank you."

"I see you're wearing your mother's colors this evening."

Her smile dimmed some. "I thought I should since this is our first Christmas without her."

Liam got to his feet to wrap her in his arms. "You honor Madeleine in everything you do, dearest."

Charlotte blinked back tears. "I hope so."

She straightened her posture. "I know she was anxious for me to choose a suitor before she died." She rested her head on Liam's shoulder when he kept his arm around her. "I know I should have to give her peace, but I couldn't help but hope that maybe I could find someone I could care for."

"Do not feel guilty." He pressed a kiss to the top of her head. "I want you to marry someone you love."

She nodded, lowering her eyes.

"Perhaps you'll meet someone this evening." He dropped his arm on his way back to his desk. "You never know who might show up."

She chuckled. "You never lose hope, do you Father?"

"Never." He winked at her.

"Shouldn't you be getting ready for the ball?"

Liam took his glasses off to look over at the mantle clock.

"I suppose you're right." He grimaced at the sight of Christmas cards he knew he needed to open

"I can go through some of those for you." She offered.

"I'll hurry and come back to help." He got up. "Start with the international piles."

She sat down behind his desk and began to do as he said.

Liam watched her with pride and love shining in his eyes. He couldn't be more thankful for his daughter's existence.

As he made his way to his chambers, he felt a little guilty that he did not miss her mother like one should.

Madeleine had been a phenomenal queen. Her cancer diagnosis a year earlier had been a blow that everyone across Cordonia deeply felt. Liam, the ever dutiful husband and king, remained by her side for three months as she suffered with slowly wasting away.

Though neither ever fell in love with the other, there was an affection that developed. A close friendship had grown between them, especially when they had their daughter. Their immense love for Charlotte drew them closer than they ever expected. That closeness made them a family that all Cordonians longed to be a part of.

For nearly twenty years, Liam had those two along with Regina and Leo as his family. He had his friends. He had a prosperous kingdom. He had everything a man could possibly have wished for.

Except...

He opened the top drawer of his nightstand and pulled out the tarnished key chain he'd received nearly twenty-one years ago.

His fingers rubbed the Statute of Liberty figure while he thought back to the lady who'd given it to him. He wondered what would have happened if he'd been able to marry her.

He knew he wouldn't have Charlotte. He couldn't imagine a world without his daughter in it. The past nineteen years were some of the happiest of his life by simply being her father. She had an innate gentleness about her. She possessed her parents' deep sense of duty and honor, yet had a heart that was even more tender than his.

Madeleine told Liam she was worried about her getting her hurt one day because of it. Yet, she didn't want to try and mold her the way her parents had made her. The coldness and stoic indifference she'd been raised in was not going to be part of their daughter's upbringing.

She was thankful their daughter was warm and caring.

Madeleine finally had someone who loved her unconditionally and she was able to do the same. Having a child changed her for the better. It made her relax, or at least relax as much as she could, and simply enjoy the moments out of the public eye to be with her daughter.

Liam and Madeleine spent a great deal of time with Charlotte at Applewood. Seeing their daughter crawl, learn to walk, and play helped create new memories for them both that no longer held bitterness of those hallowed halls.

Madeleine soon forgot the press release she had to give in the apple orchard over being dumped by Leo. Seeing Charlotte running to play hide and seek amongst the trees had quickly taken over that place in her mind.

And Liam learned to love his once beloved childhood home again.

Applewood. The very place where all Liam's dreams were destroyed. After all these years, he was still in disbelief that someone had managed to capture images of Riley in Tariq's arms.

He wondered what would have happened if he hadn't given in to his father's demands to choose someone else the night of his coronation.

Would the public have eventually forgiven Riley and accepted her as queen?

He set the key chain down. He shouldn't dwell on what if's. He'd been able to not think about it as often as he used to for years. Now that he was a widower and it being the holiday season, he found his thoughts returning more and more to the American he'd once loved.

Going to his closet, he began to get ready for the evening.

****************

Charlotte set aside a card from yet another political figure and reached for the next one in the stack. Her brow furrowed as she studied the faded stamp and holiday sticker. The red envelope was no longer as vibrant as the creases along the edges.

She then noticed the postal date.

"Oh my!" She slit it open and pulled the card out.

She quickly scanned the contents before seeing the name at the bottom.

Jumping to her feet, she dashed out of the study.

"Princess Charlotte!" One of the guards yelled in alarm.

Ignoring him, she hurried up the palace's stairs to her father's room.

Liam heard the commotion. He paused in tying his tie and peeked out the door.

"Charlotte!" He nearly fell backwards with her colliding into him. "What's wrong? Why did you--"

She was breathless. Gasping for air, she handed him the Christmas card.

Liam eyed her for another second or two to make certain she was alright before slipping his glasses on. He then read it's contents.

His jaw dropped.

"Father?" Charlotte gently laid her hand upon his arm. "This from her isn't it? The one you told me about?"

"It is." He shook his head in disbelief. "I can't believe after all these years she would send me a card."

"She didn't." Charlotte handed him the envelope. "Riley sent it to you twenty years ago."

Liam's eyes bulged as he read towards the bottom of her card.

"Do you think it's true?" Charlotte asked.

He set it down. Liam began to pace as him mind whirled with this unexpected surprise. He knew he needed to calm down and think everything through.

Charlotte watched him quietly. Her hands were gripped tightly while she too wondered what should be done.

"I think we should go to New York." She decided.

Liam whirled around in surprise. He should have known with Charlotte's tender heart that she would believe that they both should go.

"Shall I go tell the flight staff?" She asked.

He nodded. "Tell them we'll leave first thing tomorrow morning."

*************

New York...

"I'm home!" Riley stomped her boots at the door to knock the snow and sludge free.

"Hey Mom!" Her daughter yelled out from the kitchen. "How was your day?"

"Busy." She took her coat off and collapsed on the sofa. "How about yours?"

"Pretty good." Her daughter, Hope, came out to set the table. "Professor Simmons offered me an internship for next semester."

Riley perked up over that news. "That's wonderful! Did you accept?"

Hope playfully rolled her eyes. "You mean, did I accept my dream job of curating The Met's Egyptian displays while working with my all-time favorite mentor?" Her lips curved into a smile Riley easily recognized as her father's. "Of course I said, no."

Riley threw a throw pillow at her, laughing when it was thrown back.

She got up and hugged her tight.

"I'm so happy for you, sweetheart."

Hope squeezed her. "You'll be even happier to know I thought we should celebrate."

Riley leaned back. "Is that egg rolls I smell?"

"And everything else we love." Hope dashed back to the kitchen to gather the takeout cartons.

"That's my girl." Riley sat down and propped her aching feet up on the chair next to her.

"How bad was it today?" Hope asked.

"It wasn't horrible. Just a lot of new cases." Riley smiled at her. "As long as I can sit down, we can party all night to celebrate."

Hope laughed, shaking her head as she went back to get them something to drink.

"I hope Rapaport appreciate the greatest paralegal in the world."

Riley snorted. "I think they see us all as one entity sometimes." She sighed. "But they have been promising amazing Christmas bonuses this year."

"Good. You deserve it." Hope sat down and began to fill their plates. "I think you should take a cruise or something to reward yourself. You never do anything for you."

"Yes, I do." Riley reached over and took her daughter's hand. "All the little vacations you and I have taken over the years have been wonderful."

"But you always go where I want to." Hope squeezed her hand. "Don't get me wrong, I loved that you did, but I wish now I had realized it sooner so that we could go where you wanted to go."

"Trust me. I loved all those trips to Hershey's Park when you were little." Riley teased. "And Macy's loved that I'd have to buy bigger clothes after gorging myself on chocolate during each visit."

Hope giggled at the memories.

For nearly twenty years, it'd always been just the two of them on their many road trip adventures. Neither would have had it any other way.

Riley sat back and quietly watched her daughter as she told her about what she would be doing at The Met. Her mind drifted to one particular trip she took before her daughter came into the world. Of all the trips she'd taken in her life, she would never regret that one whirlwind of a vacation to Cordonia.

At times though, she wished she had given in to the Beaumont Brother's pleas and remained to discover who had destroyed her chance to be with her Prince Charming. Her heart broke when she heard Liam choose Madeleine over her after having just told Riley he loved her.

After all they shared in that hedge maze, she couldn't go back.

Still, she wondered what would have happened if she had...

As they settled in to eat, a knock sounded at the door.

"That's probably Sean." Hope jumped up. "I'd texted him about my internship."

She rushed over and opened the door.

"Hello." She greeted the two strangers with a warm smile. "May I help you with something?"

Speechless, Liam stared at Hope. It was as if all his memories of Riley had come to life in the young woman in front of him.

Charlotte smiled softly and took over once she saw her father unable to do so. "Does a Riley Brooks live here?"

"She does." Hope turned around. "Hey, Mom? You have some visitors."

She stepped back and invited them in.

Riley came into the living room and stopped short at the sight of Liam.

"Mom?" Hope hurried over when she saw the color drain from her mother's face. "You okay?"

Trembling, Riley sank down on the arm of the loveseat, never once taking her eyes off of Liam.

Swallowing nervously, he stepped toward her.

"Liam?" She said hesitantly.

She did not quite believe he was really in her apartment.

He nodded, his smile coming forth.

"Hello, my love." He held up the Christmas Card. "I finally received this."

Riley covered her mouth with a gasp.

"I never knew, Riley." He took her hands. "If I had, you know I would have been there for you."

Tears fell as she threw herself in his arms.

Hope glanced back at the young lady he'd come in with to see if she had some idea what was going on.

Charlotte's shy smile flashed at her as she held her hand out.

Hope took it with a soft laugh. She was used to her mom being emotional when seeing old friends.

"Hi, I'm Hope."

Tears formed in Charlotte's eyes.

"How ironic."

Hope tilted her head in question over that odd statement.

Charlotte took a deep breath. "I've secretly hoped for a sister each Christmas for as long as I can remember." She beamed at her clueless half sibling. "And at long last, I have one."

[ts1989fanatic]

Taylor Swift’s “The Eras Tour” Is a Triumph of Spectacle and Stamina: Review

Las Vegas hosted a greatest hits tour unlike anything ever staged before

As Taylor Swift ascended to the stage during the opening moments of “The Eras Tour” she emerged from billowing clouds of soft-hued tapestry in a glittering rhinestone bodysuit. She presented herself as the sergeant-at-arms ready to take her infantry of Swifties into the great pop battle through the 10 eras of her 17-year career with 44 tracks over more than three hours.

The second weekend of “The Eras Tour” at Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium on March 24th and 25th drew locals, Swifties who flooded the roads driving in from neighboring states, and international diehards from destinations far and wide. It had been a long time since Swift played Las Vegas and she broke the dry spell in a big way. As she took the stage for night three and four of “Eras”—a sold-out doubleheader in the desert — Swift rolled in a winner.

The orientation for this grand presentation was 2019’s Lover era, which included six songs: “Miss Americana & the Heartbreak Prince,” “Cruel Summer,” “The Man,” “You Need to Calm Down,” Lover,” and “The Archer.”

“We are about to go on a grand adventure,” Swift announced prior to performing “The Man.” “I’ll be your host this evening. My name is Taylor.” This was followed by a return to the familiar “Lover”-video dollhouse set, its rooms symbolizing each one of her albums. In “The Archer,” that house became engulfed in a rain of pyrotechnics—washing away in a blast of fire instead of water.

“Eras” was quite the adventure, as Swift promised. The show was loaded with heavy artillery from albums for which she has not yet toured, including 2019’s Lover, 2020’s Evermore and Folklore and 2022’s Midnights. Overall, the career highlight reel featured 12 live debuts. Those fresh moments were backed up by a smattering from Swift’s previous albums, tours and videos from eras including Taylor Swift (2006), Fearless (2008), Speak Now (2010), Red (2012), 1989 (2014), and Reputation (2017). The motifs, arrangements, costumes, dance moves and visuals drawn from those works were sometimes presented literally and at other times more nuanced and interpretive.

Despite the callback, for Swift, there is no time like the present and this era belongs to her. “The Eras Tour” aimed to engage all human senses, offering an extraordinary 4-D cognitive experience through its innovative stage design, cutting-edge visual mapping, and top-of-the-line production values that far surpassed most of today’s touring show standards.

The stage itself featured three separate platforms made of LED displays connected by a ramp — each equipped with mobile hydraulic blocks that form different shapes, creating those picture-perfect angles that Swift thrives on. It was a massive production with pyrotechnics, indoor fireworks, and image projection technology.

Whether alone or with her dozens of supporting talents, Swift dominated the football-field-long stage. In a true test of her stamina, she never broke during the three-plus hours for anything longer than a quick change.

The second era of the night was 2008’s Fearless, where she performed its title song as well as “You Belong With Me” and “Love Story,” a toe dip back into her transition from country to pop, represented by the soft golden glow of the iconic fringe dress and the lighting treatments. This was an homage to the pin-curled beauty queen with the guitar we first got to know way back when.

Era three, evermore, featured standouts “Willow” and “Champagne Problems.” The staging consisted of massive oak-like trees while Swift sat at a moss-covered piano. She went thoroughly witchy during the cloaked “Willow” as her cadre danced around with orange-hued orbs. “I’ve been fantasizing about what [this will be like] to sing it with you,” she said during an introspective interlude before heading into “Champagne Problems” where she noted the moment, “I’m so in love with this crowd, I’m petting the moss.”

Throughout, Swift deftly balanced her goddess and huntress personas, showcasing both sides of her artistry. During her performance of “Willow” from evermore, she channeled “little Taylor riding hood,” while in era four’s Reputation, she embodied a captivating “snake charmer.” Her setlist included memorable performances of “…Ready for It?,” “Delicate,” “Don’t Blame Me,” and “Look What You Made Me Do,” a reminder of the time when she had to defend and establish herself among her peers. The unforgettable snake-wrapped microphone from 2017 reappeared, slithering up her one-legged bodysuit.

The fifth era, Speak Now, received only one nod with “Enchanted” before moving on to Red and folklore.

The crowd fell into a frenzy with Red’s coming-of-age anthems “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together,” “I Knew You Were Trouble” and the 10-minute version of “All Too Well,” a sharp contrast to the seventh more ethereal and cottage-dwelling era of folklore, which packed seven songs and was one of the most prominently featured chapters of the night. The performers’ period attire during “The Last Great American Dynasty,” the funeral procession of “My Tears Ricochet,” and the woodsy isolation of “Cardigan” transported the audience back to the strange and isolating reality of the pandemic, which may have been too soon for some.

The biggest, baddest, boldest era was number eight, 1989, as dancers rode neon-lit bicycles for “Blank Space”, and used blue-lit golf clubs to smash an animated car, then “Shake It Off,” erupted into a dance party followed by the intense and hot pyro display of “Bad Blood.”

While the ability to change up a tour like “Eras” city by city is virtually impossible because of its scale — Swift played to the Vegas crowd in a few ways they could really own. Built into each setlist is space for two surprise songs, which Swift has promised will be wholly unique for each show.

During her first night in Las Vegas, Taylor Swift approached the front of the stage with her guitar for an intimate moment and addressed the crowd, saying, “This is what I feel like playing, and I will decide based on what I hope you might want to hear. I aim to please, but I also get ideas from things.” Swift then referenced an interview she saw with beabadoobee, the Filipino-British singer-songwriter who opened the evening.

“For beabadoobee’s first show, I will play this specific song that she wants to hear. I wrote this for my 9th grade talent show,” Swift shared before launching into the rousing anthem “Our Song” from her debut album.

Swift then took a seat at a hand-painted floral upright piano for the night’s biggest surprise. “Lana Del Rey put out a new album today,” Swift remarked. “Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd … it is so good — you probably already know that… It is just extraordinary. I think she is the best that we have and so make it a priority to stream, buy, support this album and this artist. She knows I am obsessed with her and she was kind enough to make a song with me on Midnights called ‘Snow on the Beach,’” Swift said.

“She is a generous king, she did that for me and I will never forget how nice she has been… I want to do some promo for her and in honor of this brilliant album she just put out, I’m going to play ‘Snow on the Beach.’”

The second night featured the first surprise guest of the tour as Marcus Mumford of Mumford & Sons popped up to do the live debut of “Cowboy Like Me” from 2020’s evermore. She also dusted off “White Horse” from Fearless.

For the closing spectacle, Swift plunged into a virtual body of water that surrounded the stage, then swam underwater back to the main platform — thanks to the next-level production — before returning to perform more songs from her Midnights era. The crowd’s excitement remained high as she introduced new tracks such as “Anti-Hero,” “Midnight Rain,” “Vigilante Shit,” and “Karma,” which received the same level of enthusiastic reception as her previously played greatest hits.

Regardless of whether you are a fan of Taylor Swift, it’s impossible to deny the sheer magnitude, artistry, and technical prowess of this production. This greatest hits tour, undertaken during her commercial prime, is an unprecedented feat and could potentially earn over a billion dollars, making it the highest-grossing tour in world history.

The three-plus”Eras” hours became a marathon and at the end, the audience was in a state of utter exhausted euphoria. But a spectacle of this size does beg the question — once you go this big, where do you go from here?

Taylor Swift’s massive 2023 tour continues through August.

[white-cat-of-doom]

Im not a fan of the most recent makeup designs, like the ones in the asia tour. Just dont like the airbrush look. I wish they'd go back to the older designs that actually looked like stage makeup. Whats your opinion? Favorite designs?

The new makeup designs courtesy of John Napier in 2021 were a bit of an adjustment for me, but I had to accept the fact that it is the future, whether I like it or not.

One thing that needs to lead off this is that it really depends on how a performer does their makeup, even with the reduction in bold colours and pattern designs of the new makeup designs.

When I first saw how everyone looked with the start of the UK/International Tour 2022-2023 last May, I was most disappointed by the lack of easily identifiable differences for the Queens. I would like to say Jennyanydots suffered the most in my view, especially in combination with wig change, but that is discounting the fact that Jemima has been very sapped of personality as well. The Toms avoided that, unsurprisingly, because their native designs are more bold.

The smooth contours for the makeup is odd to me, and I am not sure the reasoning behind it. Maybe it uses less makeup, but still gets the design across? It depends on the character (and the performer as well), as some look better than others.

In terms of my favourites among the new makeup designs, I do like the Jellylorum. The changes compared to the standard UK are quite different with the earthy, muted colours, but it does look good to me. Jellylorum, although struck with the same generic brush as the other Queens, does have some key aspects that are unique for her, with the pink lipstick and nose. Casandra does not look bad either, but it is hard to mess around too much with her design, even with the airbrushed look.

I do miss some of the more vibrant colours and pattern designs of the often maligned (and now obsolete?) standardized UK based designs, but we still have a chance to admire them in the RCCL production, for now at least.