#Mr Sensualist

[pearlprincess02]

pluto in a man's birthchart

pluto in 1st house

with pluto in the 1st house, a man often experiences life with intense passion and a profound sense of power and control. his presence can be magnetic, drawing others in while he navigates deep-seated issues of obsession and jealousy. this placement fosters a transformative approach to self-expression, where renewal comes through confronting personal taboos and exploring the subconscious. his sexuality is marked by a powerful, often compelling energy that drives him to uncover and embrace hidden desires and deeper truths about himself. in relationships, this intensity can lead to a dynamic where power plays a significant role, pushing him toward profound personal growth and understanding.

keywords: magnetic enigma, alpha, dark horse, intense lover, power player, obsessive pursuer, transformative leader, taboo breaker, complex anti-hero, passionate visionary.

examples from movies/tv: don draper (mad men), patrick bateman (american psycho), tom ripley (the talented mr. ripley), dexter morgan (dexter), jesse pinkman (breaking bad)

pluto in 2nd house

with pluto in the 2nd house, a man’s approach to life is deeply intertwined with intensity and passion, especially regarding personal values and material security. he often seeks power and control through financial stability and possessions, leading to obsessive tendencies about wealth and resources. this placement can stir feelings of jealousy over material success or status, pushing him toward significant transformation and renewal in his self-worth and values. delving into taboos and the subconscious, he explores deep-seated fears and desires related to his value system and personal assets. his sexuality is characterized by a profound, sometimes all-consuming drive, revealing a need to merge deeply with his desires and those of his partners, transforming both self and relationship dynamics.

keywords: resourceful enigma, possessive tycoon, obsessive collector, transformative financier, taboo-breaking sensualist, passionate materialist, controlling patriarch, 

examples from movies/tv: gordon gekko (wall street), frank underwood (house of cards), walter white (breaking bad), tyler durden (fight club), michael corleone (the godfather),

pluto in 3rd house

with pluto in the 3rd house, a man experiences intense passion and drive in his communication and intellectual pursuits. his need for power and control manifests through his interactions and thought processes, often leading to obsessive focus on his ideas and relationships. jealousy might surface in his exchanges, particularly if he feels challenged or threatened intellectually. this placement fosters significant transformation and renewal through exploring deeply held beliefs and confronting subconscious patterns. he may be drawn to uncover and engage with taboos, especially those related to communication and learning. in sexuality, his approach is intense and transformative, reflecting a deep desire to connect profoundly and intellectually with his partners, reshaping his perceptions and experiences of intimacy.

keywords: intense communicator, manipulative wordsmith, obsessive researcher, transformative thinker, taboo-breaking provocateur, passionate debater, controlling intellect, 

examples from movies/tv: hannibal lecter (the silence of the lambs), john doe (se7en), tony stark (iron man), roy waller (matchstick men), william foster (falling down),

pluto in 4th house

with pluto in the 4th house, a man’s intensity and passion are deeply rooted in his home life and family dynamics. his quest for power and control often centers on creating a secure and dominant presence within his domestic sphere, leading to obsessive tendencies regarding his personal space and family relationships. jealousy may emerge over issues of control or security within the home. this placement drives profound transformation and renewal through revisiting and resolving deep-seated familial and emotional issues. he is drawn to explore taboos and subconscious fears related to his upbringing and emotional foundations. in sexuality, his approach is deeply transformative, seeking to merge his intimate desires with a profound emotional connection, reshaping his understanding of personal and relational intimacy.

keywords: intense patriarch, controlling homebody, obsessive family man, transformative foundation builder, taboo-breaking ancestor, passionate nurturer, 

examples from movies/tv: norman bates (psycho), tyrion lannister (game of thrones), thomas shelby (peaky blinders), tony soprano (the sopranos), frank gallagher (shameless),

pluto in 5th house

with pluto in the 5th house, a man’s intensity and passion are channeled into his creative pursuits, romantic relationships, and self-expression. his desire for power and control often manifests through his creative projects and romantic involvements, leading to obsessive behaviors around these areas. jealousy might surface in matters of love or competition, driving him to confront deeper issues of self-worth and recognition. this placement encourages significant transformation and renewal through exploring and redefining his sources of pleasure and creativity. he may be drawn to uncover and engage with taboos related to self-expression and romance, delving into the subconscious aspects of his desires. in sexuality, his approach is profoundly transformative, seeking to fuse passion with emotional depth, reshaping his experiences of intimacy and personal fulfillment.

keywords: intense charmer, controlling stage presence, obsessive performer, transformative creator, taboo-breaking artist, passionate lover, 

examples from movies/tv: christian grey (fifty shades of grey), james bond (james bond series), joker (the dark knight), david aames (vanilla sky), bojack horseman (bojack horseman),

pluto in 6th house

with pluto in the 6th house, a man’s intensity and passion are deeply intertwined with his work, health, and daily routines. his drive for power and control is channeled into his professional life and personal well-being, often leading to obsessive behaviors regarding productivity and perfectionism. jealousy may arise in competitive work environments or over perceived inadequacies in his routines. this placement promotes profound transformation and renewal through confronting and overhauling old habits and health issues. he is compelled to explore taboos and subconscious fears related to his work environment and daily life. in sexuality, his approach is transformative, seeking to integrate his desires with a deeper understanding of his own needs and those of his partners, reshaping his intimate connections and personal growth.

keywords: intense workaholic, controlling perfectionist, obsessive researcher, transformative healer, taboo-breaking rebel, passionate servant, 

examples from movies/tv: dr. gregory house (house m.d.), michael bluth (arrested development), howard stark (agent carter), elliot alderson (mr. robot), paul atreides (dune),

pluto in 7th house

with pluto in the 7th house, a man experiences intense passion and drive in his relationships and partnerships. his need for power and control often emerges through dynamics with others, leading to obsessive behaviors and deep-seated issues around partnership and commitment. jealousy may manifest in romantic or business relationships, prompting him to confront and resolve underlying fears. this placement fosters significant transformation and renewal through the exploration and redefinition of his relational patterns. he is drawn to delve into taboos and subconscious patterns related to intimacy and collaboration. in sexuality, his approach is profound and transformative, seeking to deeply connect with partners while continuously evolving his understanding of intimacy and personal connection.

keywords: intense partner, controlling manipulator, obsessive lover, transformative union seeker, taboo-breaking rebel, passionate collaborator, 

examples from movies/tv: julius caesar (rome), gordon ramsay (hell’s kitchen), patrick jane (the mentalist), rick sanchez (rick and morty), victor von doom / doctor doom (fantastic four),

pluto in 8th house

with pluto in the 8th house, a man experiences profound intensity and passion in areas related to intimacy, shared resources, and personal transformation. his drive for power and control often surfaces in matters of joint finances or deep emotional connections, leading to obsessive tendencies and complex dynamics around trust and vulnerability. jealousy may arise over issues of control or emotional depth within relationships. this placement is marked by significant transformation and renewal through confronting and integrating profound psychological and emotional experiences. he is compelled to explore taboos and the subconscious, delving into the darker aspects of his psyche and desires. in sexuality, his approach is intensely transformative, seeking deep, meaningful connections that challenge and reshape his understanding of intimacy and personal power.

keywords: intense enigma, controlling power broker, obsessive investigator, transformative healer, taboo-breaking mystic, passionate lover, 

examples from movies/tv: anton chigurh (no country for old men), nicholas van orton (the game), david (the skin i live in), lestat de lioncourt (interview with the vampire), james bond (casino royale),

pluto in 9th house

with pluto in the 9th house, a man’s intensity and passion are directed towards his pursuit of higher knowledge, philosophical beliefs, and long-distance endeavors. his need for power and control manifests through intellectual and spiritual pursuits, often leading to obsessive exploration of big ideas and ideological frameworks. jealousy might arise in academic or philosophical debates, pushing him to confront deep-seated fears about his beliefs and understanding. this placement drives significant transformation and renewal through a profound reassessment of his worldviews and personal philosophies. he is drawn to uncover taboos and subconscious patterns related to his exploration of meaning and purpose. in sexuality, his approach is intense and transformative, seeking to integrate his desires with a deeper understanding of his own values and how they shape his intimate connections.

keywords: intense philosopher, controlling ideologue, obsessive seeker, transformative visionary, taboo-breaking explorer, passionate idealist, 

examples from movies/tv: richard alpert (lost), professor charles xavier (x-men), clyde shelton (law abiding citizen), frank abagnale jr. (catch me if you can), rick grimes (the walking dead),

pluto in 10th house

with pluto in the 10th house, a man’s intensity and passion are focused on his career, public image, and aspirations for success. his drive for power and control manifests through his professional life, often leading to obsessive behavior in achieving career goals and maintaining a dominant public presence. jealousy may surface in competitive work environments or when confronted with others' success, prompting deep self-reflection and transformation. this placement fosters significant renewal through re-evaluating and reshaping his career path and public persona. he is drawn to explore taboos and subconscious fears related to authority and achievement. in sexuality, his approach is profoundly transformative, seeking to integrate his desires with his ambitions, reshaping his intimate relationships to align with his broader goals and personal power.

keywords: intense leader, controlling visionary, obsessive achiever, transformative titan, taboo-breaking maverick, passionate reformer, 

examples from movies/tv: howard hughes (the aviator), donnie brasco (donnie brasco), j.r. ewing (dallas), bruce wayne / batman (batman begins), hank moody (californication),

pluto in 11th house

with pluto in the 11th house, a man’s intensity and passion are directed towards his social circles, friendships, and long-term goals. his quest for power and control often plays out within group dynamics or through his involvement in social causes, leading to obsessive behavior in achieving his idealistic visions. jealousy might arise in relation to his peers or within social networks, prompting him to confront deep-seated fears about acceptance and influence. this placement drives significant transformation and renewal through a profound reassessment of his role within groups and his aspirations. he is drawn to explore taboos and subconscious patterns related to social interactions and collective ideals. in sexuality, his approach is intense and transformative, seeking to align his intimate connections with his broader social and personal ambitions.

keywords: intense revolutionary, controlling idealist, obsessive reformer, transformative visionary, taboo-breaking rebel, passionate humanist, 

examples from movies/tv: jim morrison (the doors), lenny leonard (the simpsons), george costanza (seinfeld), michael scott (the office), boris yellnikoff (whatever works),

pluto in 12th house

with pluto in the 12th house, a man experiences profound intensity and passion within his inner world and subconscious mind. his need for power and control often manifests through hidden or private struggles, leading to obsessive behaviors around his personal fears and psychological patterns. jealousy may emerge from unseen or repressed emotions, prompting deep self-exploration and confrontation with his own shadow self. this placement fosters significant transformation and renewal through working on internal issues and subconscious material. he is drawn to uncover taboos and delve into the depths of his psyche, exploring hidden aspects of his being. in sexuality, his approach is deeply transformative, seeking to integrate his desires with a profound understanding of his inner self, reshaping his intimate relationships through personal growth and introspection.

keywords: intense recluse, controlling shadow self, obsessive seeker, transformative healer, taboo-breaking mystic, passionate visionary, 

examples from movies/tv: travis bickle (taxi driver), rorschach (watchmen), jack torrance (the shining), david (the omen), donnie darko (donnie darko),

all observations are done by me !!! @pearlprincess02

[t0ast-ghost]

Ayup! I’m back with Episode 19 (Arena). The episode where Kirk fights a Gorn:

- McCoy right away is a good sign

- “Doctor, you are a sensualist.” “You bet your pointed ears, I am.” This is said as he looks Spock up and down and lowers his register. Spock looks affronted at Kirk.

- “I’ve got to get to the captain” Spock does some awesome rolls

- That SHRIEK from Uhura

- Single eyebrow raise

- ohhhh so that’s a Gorn

- “It’s not a boulder- it’s a rock!” What I say anytime Kirk almost gets crushed to death

- The boyfriends are WORRIED! “What are you going to do, Mr Spock?” “If I could help him, I would.”

- The Gorn sounds like a dog… if dogs could hiss

- McCoy says “Inconceivable” (do you think they’ve watched the princess bride together?)

- “It’s potassium Nitrate.” Proceeds to watch Kirk eat it out of his hand

- Does the Gorn have a mircrophone?

- He was a faerie

- Lots of episodes about them being predators… hmmm

Admittedly shorter than my others. I wrote this in my notebook because my phone was dying and I wanted to draw so that’s why it’s taken so long to come, I have up to episode 25 already watched so idk when I’ll edit and post ‘em, but most likely gonna make another post today

Masterpost

[brechtian]

hey so ik you JUST got an ask about the waves but. can i ask about the waves too

okay so virginia woolf is like FAMOUS for her feminist novels and to me it almost seems like the waves is the odd one out. i just reread it (and annotated, and underlined, and highlighted, and tabbed, and pronounced it one of my favorite books because HOW COULD YOU NOT ITS SO WONDERFUL AND THOUGHT-PROVOKINGG AND POETIC) and although i love it the female characters seem to have more stereotypically feminine roles. i checked the introduction of my copy (intro by molly hite) and saw that it said "The Waves did not offer such exemplary female characters or themes: Indeed, it gave its female characters stereotypical feminine persuits, while its male characters were writers and also active in the public sphere."

there wasn't much elaboration in the intro however (i might be wrong about this though, i lowkey hate reading introductions it's my fatal flaw i'm sorry) except that later on feminists re-examined the waves and looked at subtext. (like how rhoda is a lesbian icon now bc of the mrs lambert passage)

but still, susan is housewife and mother, a stereotypically feminine role (i adore susan but analyzing characters sometimes means discarding some emotional connection for me) and jinny is the romantic sensualist. idk i love jinny and susan but yk i'm just thinking about their roles specifically regarding gender roles HELP IDK I'M PROBABLY MAKING A FOOL OUT OF MYSELF RN AND AM MISUNDERSTANDING SMTH REALLY MAJOR IM SORRY

i was just wondering your thoughts on this?? i mean i just stumbled across your tumblr a few days ago from this other (kind of boring but likes-the-waves-too) blog and you seem to have really interesting opinions abt the waves !! no pressure to respond obv

Hi!! I’m about to get on a plane to London so I will see if I’m able to get all my thoughts out in time. I’ll begin by saying that I’ve read a fairly considerable body of scholarship surrounding the waves, but none of that was particularly feminism-focused scholarship (it was primarily formalism, biographical crit, and analyses of spirituality, science, & metaphysics in the novel with some post colonialism thrown in), so most of this is based off of my personal analysis and discussions I’ve had with my Virginia Woolf professor. I actually love the women in The Waves, but I think a pivotal starting point is the understanding that all of the characters in The Waves function as concepts and ideas first and as actual people second. With that said, I think it is notable that there is not a female artistic/scholarly presence in the book beyond the vaguely mentioned, never-named woman writing in her room (often viewed as being Woolf herself). Originally The Waves included a narrator character that was female and felt very much like a stand-in for Woolf, and I wonder if that was meant to sort of be the female writer/intellectual presence in the novel but got cut to make the book cleaner. Regardless, each of the women are functioning both as archetypes and commentary on their archetypes.

Jinny is probably the least obviously a critique, but I think you definitely very clearly still get it in some moments where she links sexuality and sensuality with violence and objectification.

I also read some criticism that discusses how Jinny as a character can be seen as combatting the solipsism in the book by conveying the possibility and beauty of living physically in one’s own being & that the flesh cannot be ignored, finding a kind of power and importance in the female body (which feels very cixous second wave feminism). Overall, though, I think it’s a discredit to Woolf to not view Jimmy as an explicit examination of her archetype.

Rhoda & Susan are my girls and my favorite characters in the entire novel. If Susan is not just the most brilliant and breathtaking critique of the wife-mother expectation of women of the time what is. One of the most heartbreaking passages in the entire book to me is when Susan, who found freedom and joy in nature and movement and being one with the outside world (exacerbated by continuous connections between her and animals & nature), is confined to moving exclusively between the rooms of her house. She even immediately evokes the image of the dead mother as she goes. (Additionally, the end of this passage gets into post-colonialist critique, as Susan clearly symbolizes the upper-middle class white women who stayed at home as their husbands colonized India/Africa and directly benefitted from & supported colonization even if they were not actively violently participating)

Susan also holds so so so much anger, like violent fury, the exact opposite of what one would expect from the perfect housewife, and her motherhood is portrayed really as something more animalistic than anything. I also love that her husband is like completely irrelevant to both her and the book; even though becoming a housewife is a horrible restraint placed upon her I think Woolf is playing with expectations by the husband being a nameless shadow and just a vehicle for Susan to get her child (AND functioning as a commentary on the absence of men’s presence and aid in the domestic sphere). I think knowing about Woolf’s opinion of motherhood (continued horror & fascination by it) and her complex feelings surrounding her sister’s motherhood rly adds to understanding why Susan is Like That and so fierce in her nurturing. I also love the passage early on where Susan talks about crumpling the calendar pages in balls and discarding them, her vengeant war against time itself.

RHODA!!! I’m literally getting a Rhoda tattoo that’s my girl my girl!!!!!!! She is psychosis she is transcendence and isolation and mirrors and the waves itself my god. Rhoda is the moon tarot Rhoda is Inland Empire from disco elysium. There is a very fragile membrane between the characters of the waves and Something Larger (my whole capstone paper was on occult spirituality in the waves and my planned future masters thesis will be on ghosts and souls in Woolf’s work), maybe God or the Universe but symbolized in the novel as the ocean of which the characters function as individual waves, but Rhoda is the one for whom this membrane is the most frayed. I honestly don’t know if I have much to say about Rhoda from a feminist perspective other than I find her fascinating and that while I don’t usually encourage overly biographical readings of Woolf it becomes very very apparent if you know Woolf’s diaries and letters well that Rhoda is a mirror of Woolf’s own periods of poor mental health. I guess it relates in that to me Rhoda is of course a woman because she is the most explicitly connected to Woolf herself (in Hermione Lee’s biography, she presents the reading of each of the characters of the waves as members of the Bloomsbury group and Rhoda is picked out as the Woolf parallel. I don’t agree with this reading but it is significant to me how immediately Rhoda is identifiable with Woolf). Okay I’m about to board my flight but if you want to talk any more about the waves or have more specific questions about anything I said let me know!!!

RHODA YOU WILL ALWAYS BE FAMOUS!!!

[spocktogo]

i think i will start a star trek tos watchlog! im on episode 19 but i wanna log my thoughts :D

Captains Log Stardate Ep 19

ok we immediately open to kirk and bones murmuring about sensual delights (to be fair its only cooking) into each others ears. only for spock to immediately after tell bones that he is a Sensualist. to which he replies 'you bet your pointed ears i am' while looking at my favorite halfvulcan like a particularly tasty dessert. wow. its like one minute into the episode

lets go we are immediately under attack. no sensual delights for you dr mccoy. i do love how kirk is always ready to die for his ship and his crew. and also him rolling in the mud. when they took cover spock reached for him,,,

kirk activating serious mode and it keeps cutting to Live Spock Reaction

girl. he settled in so comfortably (we are in the middle of an intense battle) and said this in the softest voice

i love superior beings. 'we will resolve the conflict in the way most suited to your limited mentalities' right after kirk went on a little revenge fantasy trip.

(nice i still have some cheese sticks)

uh oh mr captain i think youre outmatched against the gorn. also i think youre walking straight into a nice little trap set by them. (also im hungry but my cheese sticks are empty now)

it wasnt a trap but man that gorn is stronk

my man is building a gun 😊😊😊 <- me and spock both watching jim

i also dont want the alien man to die. cant their limited mentalities find a peaceful solution

ahh yes. and magical golden twink boy was satisfied as well. jim pacifist kirk never disappoints. good episode i love these where the message is Mercy and kindness is what makes us worthy!

[coconuts-mafia]

Hit Love Bite Ep 1

This did not start how I expected it to at all. What in the world. Absolutely nobody would be taking to my kid without me present. Did this person really just say the kid died from sex? Well damn, that's how I want to go. Died of perversion and foolishness? Yeah, no, I still want to go that way.

That intro song is horrible. Just no. OMG! So they really did have a consultant. Niiice! Okay, so right off the bat, we get into the kink. A vanilla would call this body worship, but it's sensualism. It's about engaging all the senses. That's why you see the armpit smelling. Sensualist typically don't shy away, they like to feel, smell, hear, and taste everything. Don't take that to a gross level, they aren't unsanitary, but they will for sure eat ass without second guessing.

Well damn. We started this off with a bang. Literally. But I got to say, if you're worried about being outed, maybe not give blowjobs in a gym locker room. Just saying. And is this teacher for real? Ohhh, I already like this secondary couple. Why is this teacher making sex a dirty thing? See no real education, just don't do it, you perverts. Then everyone is pregnant or has stds and you wonder why. Ugh, because you didn't teach them about condoms. Duh.

Oh! I love this kid. What's his name, what's his name?! Look at him being so mysterious. His name is king and the dorks name is Burger. OMG. Why do I love this so much. 🤣🤣🤣 Burger says, "Oh, really? “Burger “ and “ King” Our names are so damn good together." And King gives him the cutest smile.

Then he goes back to being Mr cool.

And product placement for acne wash. Deep stare into the eyes while they shower together. Are they hoping to get caught? No lip kisses? Why no lip kisses? Yup, at least one of them is worried about being outed. Okay so just looked up names. Ken is. He is afraid of being outted. Ken was all, I miss you baby and can you stay longer. Now he is like, bye bitch. What a cunt.

And we find out that King is king of the castle. Mr. Cool guy for real. Burger and King again. They are so cute! Burger is so fucking cute, you guys. "I'll be an extra! I can be a tree or a rock!" There is a part where he puts his tiktok count and King is like, it's only 25 viewers. "Well, it's a lot to me!" Same Burger same! 🤣🤣🤣

King accepts Burger into the acting club. Burger in his excitement jumps up and hugs him. Tackling him onto the desk. Burger is a golden retriever, and I'm here for it. How can you not be charmed, King!?

Oh, No!! Poor Shokun. Ken got himself a gf. After telling Shokun he better not. Ugh. And he publically denies even being friends with him. Yeah, no, fuck that shit. I can get not wanting to be out. Like I totally didn't claim my gf in middle school (Times were not safe peeps) but I didn't deny her as a friend. That's just shitty peopling.

King rushes to be with his friend Shokun. Yup, I like this kid. He tells him to break up with the mysterious gf that nobody knows about. Good advice King!

Burger and King! Oh... So they share a book and in Burger's book there is a drawing of King. Does someone have a crush, or is it from a previous book owner? OMG BURGER ATE THE PAPER. I am not okay. Can you die of laughter? Cause I'm pretty sure I'm going to. Like he is constantly hiding from King now. Fuck, this is some funny shit. King is like, but I have questions. I'm seeing stars from laughing so hard. Oh guys, I can't stop laughing at Burgers golden retriever antics and King slowly being charmed.

You guys, I'm going to die of laughter. Burger is so fucking shy, and it's adorably funny. Making King laugh and fall so hard. He goes from being a super cool kid to these cute little smiles. Ahhh. Okay, so Burger apparently did get a part, but he is having issues learning his lines. King coming in to help. Doing acting practices. Nice.

King brings up that Burger likes him. Burger is like, no. King clearly doesn't believe him. And then they have a cute pillow fight. With feathers going everywhere, just like I've never actually had happen. And never want to because I don't like to clean. OMG, Burger got the leading lady lead across from King. This should be so cute.

Ken, you are an asshat. You don't know why he is angry. Look, you idiot. You aren't that stupid, so stop playing dumb. Fight the attraction... um, what is your name? I forgot it. Shokun? Fight the attraction Shokun, he is a high schooler. How good could the sex really be? It's not worth this. And they are caught by none other than bestie King!

King, "I am your friend. I can accept everything you are." King over here throwing out some wisdom for his age. I will say that I'm picking up very sub vibes from Shokun and very Dom vibes from King during their talk. There is some tension slash closeness that has a D/s feel. The way Kin touches Shokun's chin and locking eyes. Even the way he stands above him.

What is king up to. And Ken coming right out to be an ass. Coming up and yelling at Shokun cause he doesn't want to be found out. He hit him with a fucking towel! Bitch, I will knock you out! Hell to the nah! That's it. Stand up for yourself. Yes! Break up!

Okay, so that's intense, but I absolutely love three of the characters out of four. I have received info that there is SA in the 2 episode, so I'm waiting until I can get a trigger buddy. So I'm not sure when the next review will be. Sorry! Hoping you enjoyed this, though! 💜💜💜

[not-equippedforthis]

'Not outta' the mouth of Babes.' 'Who ya' callin' a babe?' 'I'm callin' you a babe.' 'You callin' me a babe?' 'Yeah, I'm callin'-' *kid pulls a knife on kirk* *short staring pause* '....Yeah I'm callin' you a babe but there's nothin' personal about it, now sitdown'

'I am frequently appalled by how little regard you earthmen have for life.'

'I am Apollo' 'And I am the Tsar of all the Russians-'

'As for my anatomy being different from yours, Doctor, I am relieved.'

'As crowded as my planet is, I could wish for it to hold one more person.' ':] Kirk to transporter room. One to beam-'

'I happen to have a human thing called an adrenaline gland.' 'It does sound most inconvenient, however. Have you considered having it removed?'

'Live long and prosper, Spock.' *long pause, shaking head* 'I shall do neither.'

'I got a personal grudge against that rabbit, Jim.'

'And I intend to start offending right now.'

*Jim walks up to the car* Spock, long-sufferingly: 'Must we?'

'What, Spock, are you afraid of cars?' 'No, Captain, it's your driving that alarms me.'

*kirk's sarcastic genuflecting to the council*

'Mr. Spock, this cafe has women that are so....' *pointed, long look* '.....No, I guess not....'

'You'll live.' 'Yes. But I won't be happy about it...'

'I'll protect you, fair maiden!' 'Sorry, neither.'

'If you're gonna get nasty, I'm gonna leave....'

'Doctor, you are a sensualist.' 'You bet your pointed ears I am :]' '😦'

'No! No blah blah blah!'

*kirk drops card* Guy: 'Oh, I'll get it...' *kirk flips the table*

'Alright, I'll tell you the truth- I'm a little green man from Alpha Centauri-'

my favourite lines from star trek tos

“What are you? What are those?” “I call them ears.” “Are you trying to be funny?” “NEVER”

“We’re going nowhere mighty fast”

“The Garden of Eden was..just outside Moscow”

“Sir, there is a multi-legged creature crawling on your shoulder” *pinches the guy’s neck*

“I’m a doctor, not an escalator!”

“Sometimes I think if I hear that word ‘frequency’ once more, I’ll cry.”

“Logic, logic, I’m sick to death of logic!”

“That was in the late 1960s” “Apparently captain, so are we” *zoom in on Kirk’s face* “WHAT?!”

“He had too much happiness”

that scene in The Trouble with Tribbles when Scotty told Chekov that vodka is for babies and real men drink only scotch

“How do Vulcans choose their mates? Haven’t you wondered?” *awkward silence* “I guess the rest of us assume that it’s done quite..logically”

“Captain, you make a very convincing Nazi” *theatrically offended face*

“Please, Spock, do me a favor and don’t say it’s fascinating…” “No. But it is…interesting”

“Lieutenant Sulu..is chasing a crewman..with a sword??”

*three witches appear and curse them* “Spock, comment.” “Very bad poetry, captain.” “…” “A more..useful comment, Mr. Spock.”

“What is that? Is that a uniform of some kind?” “This little thing? Just something I slipped on” *flutters eyelashes*

“Captain’s log, stardate… Armageddon” *cue dramatic music*

[talesofpassingtime]

Look you then! Everard was a true Englishman. Milton, Wordsworth, Dickens, Hardy, even Tennyson, these are the truly sensual poets of England: great men they are, perhaps the greatest. But they are the great sensual non-admitters. There is a doom on them. And of such non-admitting, cowering sensualists, Tolstoi is the flagrant example.

DH Lawrence, Mr. Noon

[alokkhandelwal]

Discover Exciting Things to Do Based on Your Zodiac Sign!

Introduction:

Are you seeking new adventures and experiences that align perfectly with your personality? Look no further! In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of astrology and guide you toward exciting activities tailored specifically to your zodiac sign. Whether you’re an adventurous Aries or a creative Cancer, we’ve got you covered. So, sit back, relax, and let’s explore the wonders that await you based on your zodiac sign!

Know more Exciting Things to do based on your Zodiac Sign. Get an online astrology consultation by the world-renowned astrologer Mr. Alok Khandelwal.

 Aries (March 21 – April 19) – The Trailblazer

As a fearless and energetic Aries, you thrive on adrenaline-pumping activities. Embrace your adventurous spirit by engaging in exhilarating outdoor pursuits. Take up rock climbing, go skydiving, or embark on a thrilling bungee jumping experience. These heart-pounding adventures will fuel your fire and invigorate your spirit.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) – The Sensualist

As a Taurus, you appreciate the finer things in life and have a keen eye for beauty. Indulge your senses by exploring the world of gastronomy. Visit renowned restaurants, try new cuisines, and savor exquisite flavors. Additionally, immerse yourself in art galleries, visit botanical gardens, or pamper yourself with a spa day. These sensory experiences will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20) – The Curious Communicator

As a Gemini, you have an insatiable curiosity and a natural gift for communication. Engage in activities that allow you to express your creativity and engage with others. Join a public speaking club, start a blog, or participate in improv classes. You can also satisfy your inquisitive mind by exploring bookstores, attending workshops, or joining a local debate group. These activities will keep your mind stimulated and feed your need for intellectual engagement.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22) – The Nurturer

As a Cancer, you have a nurturing and compassionate nature. Connect with your emotions and express your creativity by exploring artistic endeavors. Try your hand at painting, pottery, or photography. Additionally, volunteer at a local charity, visit animal shelters or organize fundraising events. These activities will tap into your empathetic side and provide a sense of fulfillment.

Read Also:- Understanding Your Chances of Parenthood with Astrology

Leo (July 23 – August 22) – The Charismatic Leader

As a Leo, you have a natural flair for the dramatic and a magnetic personality. Channel your inner performer by exploring the world of theater, dance, or music. Join a local theater group, take up ballroom dancing, or learn to play a musical instrument. You can also attend stand-up comedy shows or participate in open mic nights. These activities will allow you to showcase your talent and bask in the spotlight.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22) – The Detail-Oriented Perfectionist

As a Virgo, you possess a meticulous nature and a keen eye for detail. Engage in activities that stimulate your analytical mind and help you refine your skills. Take up gardening, try your hand at puzzle-solving, or engage in DIY projects. You can also explore mindfulness practices such as yoga or meditation. These activities will bring you a sense of tranquility and allow you to embrace your practical side.

Libra (September 23 – October 22) – The Harmonious Diplomat

As a Libra, you value balance, harmony, and social connections. Engage in activities that foster your love for beauty and bring people together. Attend art exhibitions, organize dinner parties, or take up interior design. You can also join social clubs, participate in team sports, or volunteer for community events. These activities will nourish your friendly nature and create a harmonious environment around you.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) – The Intense Investigator

As a Scorpio, you possess an innate sense of intuition and a desire for deep exploration. Engage in activities that allow you to delve into the mysteries of life. Take up astrology, explore tarot reading, or join a paranormal investigation group. Additionally, embrace your love for the unknown by visiting haunted places, reading thrilling novels, or watching suspenseful movies. These activities will ignite your passion for the enigmatic.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) – The Adventurous Explorer

As a Sagittarius, you have an insatiable wanderlust and a thirst for knowledge. Engage in activities that allow you to explore new horizons. Travel to exotic destinations, go on hiking expeditions or learn a new language. You can also immerse yourself in different cultures through cooking classes or attending cultural festivals. These activities will satisfy your wanderlust and broaden your perspective.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) – The Ambitious Achiever

As a Capricorn, you are driven by ambition and have a strong work ethic. Engage in activities that align with your desire for personal and professional growth. Take up leadership roles in organizations, pursue higher education, or participate in career development workshops. Additionally, challenge yourself by taking up endurance sports or engaging in strategic board games. These activities will keep you motivated and propel you toward success.

Conclusion:

Embracing the essence of your zodiac sign can lead you to a world of exciting possibilities. By aligning your interests and personality traits with the activities suggested for your zodiac sign, you can embark on fulfilling journeys and discover new aspects of yourself. Astrology serves as a guide, but ultimately, it’s up to you to make the most of the experiences that resonate with your true self. So, go forth and let the stars guide you toward an extraordinary life filled with adventure, growth, and self-discovery!

Read Also:- Simple Yoga Asanas That Can Transform Your Health

[alokastrology1]

Discover Exciting Things to Do Based on Your Zodiac Sign!

Introduction:

Are you seeking new adventures and experiences that align perfectly with your personality? Look no further! In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of astrology and guide you toward exciting activities tailored specifically to your zodiac sign. Whether you’re an adventurous Aries or a creative Cancer, we’ve got you covered. So, sit back, relax, and let’s explore the wonders that await you based on your zodiac sign!

Know more Exciting Things to do based on your Zodiac Sign. Get an online astrology consultation by the world-renowned astrologer Mr. Alok Khandelwal.

 Aries (March 21 – April 19) – The Trailblazer

As a fearless and energetic Aries, you thrive on adrenaline-pumping activities. Embrace your adventurous spirit by engaging in exhilarating outdoor pursuits. Take up rock climbing, go skydiving, or embark on a thrilling bungee jumping experience. These heart-pounding adventures will fuel your fire and invigorate your spirit.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) – The Sensualist

As a Taurus, you appreciate the finer things in life and have a keen eye for beauty. Indulge your senses by exploring the world of gastronomy. Visit renowned restaurants, try new cuisines, and savor exquisite flavors. Additionally, immerse yourself in art galleries, visit botanical gardens, or pamper yourself with a spa day. These sensory experiences will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20) – The Curious Communicator

As a Gemini, you have an insatiable curiosity and a natural gift for communication. Engage in activities that allow you to express your creativity and engage with others. Join a public speaking club, start a blog, or participate in improv classes. You can also satisfy your inquisitive mind by exploring bookstores, attending workshops, or joining a local debate group. These activities will keep your mind stimulated and feed your need for intellectual engagement.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22) – The Nurturer

As a Cancer, you have a nurturing and compassionate nature. Connect with your emotions and express your creativity by exploring artistic endeavors. Try your hand at painting, pottery, or photography. Additionally, volunteer at a local charity, visit animal shelters or organize fundraising events. These activities will tap into your empathetic side and provide a sense of fulfillment.

Read Also:- Understanding Your Chances of Parenthood with Astrology

Leo (July 23 – August 22) – The Charismatic Leader

As a Leo, you have a natural flair for the dramatic and a magnetic personality. Channel your inner performer by exploring the world of theater, dance, or music. Join a local theater group, take up ballroom dancing, or learn to play a musical instrument. You can also attend stand-up comedy shows or participate in open mic nights. These activities will allow you to showcase your talent and bask in the spotlight.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22) – The Detail-Oriented Perfectionist

As a Virgo, you possess a meticulous nature and a keen eye for detail. Engage in activities that stimulate your analytical mind and help you refine your skills. Take up gardening, try your hand at puzzle-solving, or engage in DIY projects. You can also explore mindfulness practices such as yoga or meditation. These activities will bring you a sense of tranquility and allow you to embrace your practical side.

Libra (September 23 – October 22) – The Harmonious Diplomat

As a Libra, you value balance, harmony, and social connections. Engage in activities that foster your love for beauty and bring people together. Attend art exhibitions, organize dinner parties, or take up interior design. You can also join social clubs, participate in team sports, or volunteer for community events. These activities will nourish your friendly nature and create a harmonious environment around you.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) – The Intense Investigator

As a Scorpio, you possess an innate sense of intuition and a desire for deep exploration. Engage in activities that allow you to delve into the mysteries of life. Take up astrology, explore tarot reading, or join a paranormal investigation group. Additionally, embrace your love for the unknown by visiting haunted places, reading thrilling novels, or watching suspenseful movies. These activities will ignite your passion for the enigmatic.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) – The Adventurous Explorer

As a Sagittarius, you have an insatiable wanderlust and a thirst for knowledge. Engage in activities that allow you to explore new horizons. Travel to exotic destinations, go on hiking expeditions or learn a new language. You can also immerse yourself in different cultures through cooking classes or attending cultural festivals. These activities will satisfy your wanderlust and broaden your perspective.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) – The Ambitious Achiever

As a Capricorn, you are driven by ambition and have a strong work ethic. Engage in activities that align with your desire for personal and professional growth. Take up leadership roles in organizations, pursue higher education, or participate in career development workshops. Additionally, challenge yourself by taking up endurance sports or engaging in strategic board games. These activities will keep you motivated and propel you toward success.

Conclusion:

Embracing the essence of your zodiac sign can lead you to a world of exciting possibilities. By aligning your interests and personality traits with the activities suggested for your zodiac sign, you can embark on fulfilling journeys and discover new aspects of yourself. Astrology serves as a guide, but ultimately, it’s up to you to make the most of the experiences that resonate with your true self. So, go forth and let the stars guide you toward an extraordinary life filled with adventure, growth, and self-discovery!

Read Also:- Simple Yoga Asanas That Can Transform Your Health

[muirmarie]

Some more thoughts:

1. Noted Sensualist Leonard McCoy not wanting to make Spock uncomfortable, so trying very hard not to think about sex at all, but what that means in PRACTICE is Spock keeps hearing him think, "don't think about sex don't think about sex don't think about sex" lmaooo

2. Noted Martyr Leonard McCoy preparing to risk his life to save someone else, and Spock just grabbing him by the arm, extremely NOPE, NOT TODAY, I SEE WHAT YOU'RE PLANNING AND DENIIIED

3. Spock just staring at McCoy, utterly fascinated, while they're bickering, as McCoy gets verbally grumpier and angrier, while internally said grumpiness/anger is intermixed with him affectionately chuckling to himself

4. Spock giving McCoy a devastating set down that McCoy can't even focus on because Spock's thoughts are glowing so brightly with so much smug teasing affection that McCoy can't even look at them straight-on or he'll get blinded

5. Kirk's rescued from almost certain death per usual and the CACOPHONY of both their thoughts just shouting "JIM JIM JIM" like those seagulls in Finding Nemo???? Embarrassing tbh

6. Kirk absolutely ruining their lives by deliberately pulling them individually aside and making comments like, "Mr. Spock certainly looks in fine form today, doesn't he, Doctor?" And, "I've always thought Dr. McCoy's smile could warm any room, but I'm sure you wouldn't have noticed that, would you, Mr. Spock," and watching the sheer TERROR in their eyes as their thoughts immediately and unwillingly SPIRAL

7. They obviously save the day by thinking loudly at each other, and in the sheer triumph of the moment they're both thinking kiss? Kiss! But both stone-faced completely ignore both their own and the other's thoughts because they are Professionals, thank you

spock/mccoy(/kirk?) where bc ~space shenanigans~ they can hear each others thoughts, but both of them genuinely think such nice things about each other that they literally Cannot address it, not even to tease the other about it, because they know the other person can feel how fond THEIR thoughts are, too, so they just calmly and deliberately - without ever talking about it - lie to everyone else about how they're bickering even in their thoughts

(kirk just looks at them with a smile and a glint in his eye, but he's an incredibly nice person (as he tells them later at length) and doesn't call them out on it in public)

scotty, with a smirk: you getting a headache from all his criticizing, dr. mccoy?

mccoy, trying to tune out with every fiber of his being the sound of spock warmly considering how well mccoy is handling this, and how if there's any doctor who will figure it out, he'll be the one, as he is indeed the finest doctor spock has ever known: HAHA YEP IT'S A REAL NIGHTMARE UP HERE!!!!

kirk, with that glint in his eye: and you, mr. spock? how are you dealing with the introduction of so much irrationality?

spock, mere seconds away from making up a reason to run to his room and try to meditate away the sound of mccoy's own extremely warm thoughts about what a skilled science officer spock is, and how if he had to have this happen with anyone at least it was someone he respects so much: dr. mccoy rarely keeps his thoughts to himself, so this is not such a change, captain.

kirk: mmhmmmmm i bet

[kinetic-elaboration]

October 9: 1x18 Arena

Today’s ep is Arena, which isn’t my favorite type of narrative generally--I don’t tend to like very sparse man-versus-nature type stories, and this is pretty close, except there’s a singular opponent--but this one is good. I mean...Gorn??

What the heck kinda conversation is this lol? Kirk and Bones all excited for some good food. Spock being suspicious.

This is a tough ep for a Kirk stan such as myself but Spock sure does come across well.

“Doctor, you are a sensualist,” Spock says as if he weren’t ALSO a sensualist lol. I’ve seen those big red curtains you have in your room bitch, don’t tell me you’re not a sensualist.

DeForest Kelley was so good... that smile. It’s so beautiful.

Kirk’s smile is pretty good too, especially that very specific “my two favorite people are interacting” soft smile. Same, Kirk, I love it too!

Well, so much for that good non reconstituted meal.

Kirk, Spock, Bones, and a redshirt beam down to a planet...what will happen?

“There are living creatures here... not human... cold-blooded.” Like Spock!

Sulu is really running the whole show here. Definite Captain material. He is an experienced combat officer. But it’s not the military right lmao.

Honestly kind of love that all of this is being done by big lizards. Like the mystery of the unknown alien is great for a first watch but it’s just as satisfying to know they’re big reptiles.

Also speaking of Sulu his eye shadow is great today.

“Protect my ship!” aka today in “Kirk loves his ship more than anything.”

And their goes their ride.

Spock: “I’ve got to get to the captain!” Sure do bb. He’s so much ganglier and more awkward than Kirk when he runs and rolls around.

The lizards are very smart, locking onto Spock’s tricorder and turning it into a bomb, apparently.

I legit through azimuth was a sci fi word they made up rip me. It’s a real thing but in my defense it has to do with math.

Spock came SO close to patting Kirk’s ass there.

So I guess their grenade launcher worked or whatever? Kind of missed something there but they’re back on the ship.

In some ways this is a hard ep for me because Kirk does not come off great at this point, and a part of me is like “well he does respect alien life though!” but realistically....he respects life unless his own people are threatened: when it’s ship, crew, or the Federation, he’s ready to throw down. And this was a pretty big attack, and apparently merciless. Spock is right that it isn’t necessarily true that the Gorns are invaders--that’s the best part of the ep for me, they both interpreted actions on the other’s part as invasions and neither was right, so it was a perfectly parallel misunderstanding, two Captains that are both opposites and identical--but it’s understandable for Kirk to think so. He believes so strongly in the Federation and its peaceful, good faith missions to make alien friends, that aliens showing up and just decimating everything, even killing civilians, would of course anger him and make him kind of lose his mind a little.

And Spock knows he’s wrong but he also trusts the Captain and believes in the chain of command.

Also I’m a Kirk apologist so!!

Strange signals...unrecorded... space legends--there’s a whole other story right in those lines tbh!! Spooky space hauntings!

Even this angry, he still sounds soft when he says “Thank you Spock.” Shatner is a more nuanced actor than people give him credit for.

“The destruction of the alien vessel will not help that colony, Jim.”

I love how they keep saying “alien.” I mean what else are they going to say--but it’s a great word.

It’s just so obvious that Kirk needs to Learn a Very Important Lesson today...

Oops, ran into a space wall!

Scotty’s real accent is so much more subtle than Simon Pegg’s insane Scottish accent lol.

The Metrons. “You are bad, violent aliens. We hate violence ourselves, so we shall now have you fight to the death.”

Spock’s like “Uhura, get out of the way. This is fascinating.”

Yes CAPTAIN GORN what an entrance!

Kirk’s not even surprised, he’s like, well...he’s a lizard, I guess!

“This is an intelligent, highly advanced individual, a captain of a starship, like myself.”

Kirk needs a bigger stick, I guess.

This fight sequence is so odd. It���s so obvious that the Gorn’s skin is not his skin, and there’s a weird kinda delicacy/awkwardness to his movements. This isn’t even a criticism of the costume or actors, I think it’s impressive--and frankly more fun than any alien consume in more recent sci fi. Just very odd. And actually in a way I LIKE it being odd because it seems more alien.

Scotty’s like, “Mr. Spock, I have obviously already tried everything you’ve thought of. It’s ME we’re talking about here.”

Spock and Uhura so obviously in love lol. The chemistry. Wow.

I guess Starfleet exists now. And the Federation.

“If I could help him, I would.” Spock’s so sad.

So I wasn’t really clear here if the Gorn was listening to Kirk with a translator or not but apparently he was. Kind of confused why Kirk didn’t bother listening in on the Gorn. Or more specifically why his hisses weren’t automatically translated at the beginning.

Sneaky, sneaky Gorn planning something.

“Diamonds....beautifully crystallized and pointed...Spock would love them.”

Kirk definitely spends his retirement writing a memoir. “Captain’s Log: Adventures on the Final Frontier.”

Gorn’s building something still....

I love when they pretend to push styrofoam as if it were really heavy.

Ah, no, he fell right into the Gorn’s trap! Being dramatic as always.

Lol, Kirk, the Metron said there were MATERIALS for weapons, not whole-ass weapons. Put it together. Literally.

Spock in the Captain’s chair again oh yeah.

Rolling his eyes at McCoy again lol.

Spock: “Feelings for the Captain? Me? What?” *sweats nervously*

Uhura is the only one with a realistic reaction to the Gorn.

Kirk following that very human instinct to figure out what something is by licking it.

Just to drive the point home, the Gorn specifically refers to the Federation as invaders, just like Kirk referred to the Gorns as invaders. “You established an outpost in our space... We destroyed invaders.”

And Bones having a crisis over here. Could we have been.... wrong? The whole time?

This situation needs diplomats, not soldiers. Perhaps... Sarek?

Spock’s so proud of Jim. And so excited by the narrative. “Everyone out of my way, gotta sit in my fancy chair to better enjoy this quality entertainment.”

And so Kirk learns his lesson.

I find the Metron kind of hilarious. 

There’s a moment with Kirk on the bridge, in profile, where the physical similarities between Shatner and CPine are very strong.

“Where we are! I mean, were! I mean!” Sulu lol.

Quality final talk between Kirk and Spock. Bones is so obviously tired of all this lol--he just gives Kirk a quick cuddle, then off for a post-adventure drink. While Kirk and Spock do their post-adventure flirting.

I kinda want to see what’s happening on the Gorn ship tbh. Like Kirk learned his lesson but he never really established any kind of dialogue with the Gorns. We don’t know what the Gorn reaction to his mercy was.

Also I want to see Sarek interact with the Gorns.

Another very tightly plotted episode, focused on its main theme/lesson. Very satisfying.

Next up: Tomorrow Is Yesterday, a CLASSIC D.C. Fontana ep.

[d-noona]

BARTERED BRIDE

Chapter 1: Acquisition

Kim Namjoon is a ruthless financier used to buying and selling stocks, shares and priceless artifacts. But now Namjoon has his eye on a very different acquisition - Park Han Byeol. Left destitute by her father's recent death, Han Byeol walks into Namjoon's bank looking to extend her overdraft. As Han Byeol needs money and Namjoon needs a wife, he proposes the perfect deal: he'll rescue her financially if she agrees to marry him. But in this marriage of convenience can Han Byeol ever be anything more than just a bartered bride?

Expecting him to be a middle-aged toad, Han Byeol was surprised when the man who rose from behind the large orderly desk was a tall, dark, middle twenties, very handsome, with dimples on top. Man was he handsome.

“Miss Park, please sit down.” He gestured to the chair on the outer side of the desk and waited until she was settle before resuming his own sit. She knew nothing about him, except that his name was Kim Namjoon and he occupied a large office on the highest floor of a prestigious office block in the City. This area of Seoul was one of the world’s great markets. Judging by his discreetly luxurious surroundings, this man was one of the market’s moguls. To Han Byeol, until very recently, money has been something she spent with careless extravagance on clothes for herself, presents for others and anything else she wanted. Now the supply she had dried up. That was why she was here in the formidable presence of this well-built, 5’11 tall, whose physique didn’t match her mental image of a top-level financier. All she knew about him was that Mr. Lee, her late father’s lawyer, had said that Kim Namjoon wished to see her and might be able to help her and her mother out of their predicament.

Predicament being the understatement of the year, Han Byeol thought wryly, leaning back in the comfortable leather chair and automatically crossing her legs, remembering a moment too late that this was a no-no in the books of advice on how to impress interviewers. The movement caused Mr. Kim to shift the focus of his cold brown gaze from her face to her shapely knees and then to her ankles. Han Byeol accustomed to men admiring her legs furtively or openly according to temperament. Kim Namjoon belonged to the latter group, but whether his frank appraisal was appreciative, critical of indifferent it was impossible to tell. He had the most deadpan expression she had ever come across. It made her nervous.

And Han Byeol wasn’t used to being nervous. She didn’t like it. The appraisal didn’t last long, perhaps not more than three seconds. Leaning forward, his forearms resting on the edge of his desk and his long-fingered hands loosely clasped, he returned his gaze to her face. “You’re in trouble I hear.”

Lacking any regional of social accent, his voice gave no clue to his background. Self-assured and brisk, it was a voice she could imagine giving decisive orders people would jump to obey. Had she met him in surroundings not indicative of his occupation, and had been asked to guess it, she would have assumed that he held a senior rank in one of the special units of crack fighting men called to the world’s trouble spots when drastic action was the only solution. He had an air of contained physical power. A man of action rather than a desk-bound number-cruncher. “Yes,” she agreed, “We are. Since my father’s death, my mother and I have discovered that instead of being comfortably off were extremely hard up – virtually penniless.”

“Not penniless,” he said dryly. “The watch you’re wearing would pay the grocery bills of an average family for several months.” She looked down at her Cartier watch her parents had given her for her eighteenth birthday “I won’t be wearing this much longer, but I don’t mind that. I can cope with the change in our circumstances. It’s my mother I’m worried about. She’s not young. She’s never worked. She –“ He interrupted her. “Nor have you, I understand. The press described you as a playgirl”

“The press put labels on everyone…not always accurate. It’s true I’ve never had a job. There was no point. My father was rich…so we thought. I wasn’t brainy enough to train for one of the professions. I don’t have any special bent. The most useful thing I could do was to help keep other people employed, not take a routine job someone else needed” as Han Byeol attempts to explain her situation. “You do not have to explain your butterfly existence to me Miss Park, but without any work-experience, you’re not going to find it easy to start supporting yourself, particularly not at the level you’re accustomed to.”

“Presumably you didn’t ask me here to tell what I already know,” she replied, with a flash of irritation. There was something about his manner that put her back up. He hadn’t smiled when he greeted her. Beyond standing up when she was shown in by his secretary, he hadn’t done anything to put her at ease. “Why did you send for me?” she asked quirking at eyebrow at the man.

Rising, he picked up a file lying on top of his desk. He walked round to hand it to her.  “Have a look through that.” He strolled away to a window looking out on a vista of rooftops. He stood with his hands behind him, the right hand clasping the left wrist. The file held plastic pockets containing illustrations taken from magazines and the glossier kind of catalog. Mostly they showed pieces of sculpture, paintings and other objects d’art. There were also several photographs of horses, an aerial view of an island off Scotland and a picture of a small French Chateau. Half turning from the window, he said “They're all things that caught my eye over the last few years. Some of them are mine now I’m in the fortunate position of being able to indulge my acquisitive impulses…as I expected you did before your father died.”

Shaking her head “Not on this scale,” said Han Byeol. She couldn’t see where the conversation was heading, as she glanced at him, Kim Namjoon returned to his desk, resting one long hard thigh along the edge of its polished surface and folding his arms across his chest. “There’s one picture in there that you’ll recognize. Carry on looking.”

Intrigued, she obeyed, turning the pages more rapidly than before. Suddenly, with in drawn breath of surprise and puzzlement, she stopped. She hadn’t expected to see a photograph of herself. It had been taken at a party of socialites. She was wearing a figure hugging dress of black crushed velvet and showing a lot of sun-tanned cleavage, having recently returned from a winter holiday in the Caribbean. “What am I doing here?” she demanded, baffled. “You, I hope, are going to be my next major acquisition, Ms. Park.” For the first time a hint of amusement showed in the hard steely-brown eyes and flickered at the corners of his wide, chiseled mouth.

Inconsequentially, it struck her that his mouth was at variance with the rest of his features. It was the mouth of a sensualist in the face of a man who otherwise gave the impression of being self-disciplined. But it was the meaning of his extraordinary statement, rather than the contradiction between his mouth and his eyes that preoccupied her at the moment. “What do you mean?” she said warily.

“I need a wife. You need financial support. Do you understand the word fortuitous?” says Namjoon. “Of course I do,” she retorted, her long lashed – brown eyes sparkling with annoyance at the implied aspersion of her intelligence. It was true she had been considered a dunce by most of her teachers and had never done well in examinations, but that was because she hadn’t been interested in the things they wanted her to learn…grammar, math, physics and incredibly tedious bits of history, all of them taught in a way guaranteed to send the normal teenagers – particularly the sort of restless, hyperactive teenager she had been…into well…boredom. She said, “It means happening by chance…especially by a lucky chance. But I can’t see anything lucky about my father dying of massive coronary in his middle fifties, with his business on the rocks and his wife destitute,” she added coolly. Matching her coldness, he said “In my experience, most people make their own luck. Your father’s lifestyle wasn’t conductive to a long healthy life. As a business man, he took too many risks for a man with responsibilities.”

“Did you have dealings with him?” she asked. She knew nothing about her father’s business life. Since her late teens he had spent little time with his family. It was years since he and her mother had shared a bedroom. Han Byeol knew there had been other women. “Not directly. But after seeing that picture, I made a point of finding out more about you. I was on the point of making a contract when your father died and I put the matter on hold. In the light of subsequent events, I’ve adapted my original plan to deal with things more expeditiously. If my information is correct, you have no relationships with men in train at the present time?”

“How did you find that out?” she said baffled. He said coolly, “I had you investigated…a reasonable precaution in the circumstances. Marriage is a very important contract. When people are buying a house, they have searches made by surveyors and lawyers. I had you checked out, very discreetly, by a private detective. You may want to run a similar check on me. For the time being my secretary has prepared a file which will give you most information you need.”

Retrieving the file she was holding, he placed another slimmer folder on the edge of the desk in front of her. “I can’t believe I’m even hearing this, I thought this was a merchant bank…not marriage bureau.” Han Byeol’s eyes were both perplexed and angry. He didn’t look like a crazy person. In his expensive suit and diagonally striped tie, perhaps the emblem of one of those old boys’ networks which still wielded so much influence, he looked eminently sane and sensible. But he must be out of his head to believe he could buy a wife as casually and easily as everything else in the file he was putting away in a drawer. “It’s a bank and I am its chairman,” he said calmly. Han Byeol cocked her head to the side “You wouldn’t be much longer if your shareholders heard what you’re suggesting. They’d think you were out of your mind. You can’t buy a wife.”

“It isn’t the usual method of acquiring one,” he agreed, going back to his chair. “But these are unusual circumstances. I have neither the time nor inclination to follow traditional course. You are in urgent need of someone to straighten out the financial shambles you find yourself in. if you agree to marry me, your mother won’t have to move and you won’t have to worry about her future. I’ll take care of that. Think it over, Han Byeol, when you’ve had time to assess it. I think you’ll agree it’s an eminently sensible plan.” For some reason his use of her first name detonated the anger which had been building inside her. It was rare for Han Byeol to lose control of her temper. But she did now. Jumping up, she said fiercely “I don’t need to think it over. Nor would any sane person. I’m furious you’ve made me come here, thinking I’d hear something useful! This trip to Seoul has been a complete waste of time. I’ve damned good mind to write to you board of directors and tell them they’ve got a nutcase in control.” Without waiting for his reaction, she marched to the big double doors of solid mahogany and yanked one of them open. Glowering at the startled secretary at his desk in the outer sanctum, she slammed in resoundingly behind her and returned to the private lift which brought her up to this rarefied level of the building

[astrolovecosmos]

Taurus Venus + Mars Combinations

Taurus Venus + Aries Mars: Practicality and even caution can exist in how they approach relationships, but there is a willfulness to them. Knows what or who they want. Can be demanding but has a lot of stability, romance, and heat to bring to the table. 

Taurus Venus + Taurus Mars: Sensual, calm, and dependable lover. Loyalty, tradition, and comfort are needs in their relationships. Security is everything. They like to be admired unless it is with insincerity. 

Taurus Venus + Gemini Mars: Reliable yet flexible in their relationships. Can be objective, highly rational, and swing back and forth from being affectionate to lacking reassurance. Witty, appreciates beauty of both mind and body, can be argumentative and stubborn in arguments. 

Taurus Venus + Cancer Mars: Loyalty is everything. This person wants security, dependence, comfort, and familiarity. Possessiveness and grudges can be a struggle. Depth, trust, and creating memories together is important. 

Taurus Venus + Leo Mars: Looking for their muse, their prince charming, their queen. Wants to impress but also be with someone just as impressive. Likes to show off their partner from time to time. Can be stubborn but also very loving. 

Taurus Venus + Virgo Mars: Taking the safe road and being overly practical can get in the way of love sometimes. This person can be quite sensual and physical as long as there is no shame or suppression. Their physical hunger can actually be a trademark. Devotion is something they learn to define and then live. 

Taurus Venus + Libra Mars: Mr./Mrs. romantic. They know how to turn on the charm and at times may search for or dream of the typical relationship based on their society. Weighing their options can feed doubt and insecurity into relationships at times.

Taurus Venus + Scorpio Mars: Possessiveness, control, and jealousy should be some things to check on. Here is one who can love for a long time and falls in love a few times. Devotion, romance, and emotions are fixed. Is affectionate, a sensualist. 

Taurus Venus + Sagittarius Mars: Give them stability, no wait give them freedom! Here is an individual who can feel conflicted towards many friendships and lovers. They can fall into the physical being their main way of showing/experiencing love. Don’t underestimate them in terms of possibilities and growth. 

Taurus Venus + Capricorn Mars: Can be slow and subtle to initiate or engage. Flirting and affection can be an adventure but behind closed doors. Faithful and wants to provide, protect, care, but also control and maybe own. 

Taurus Venus + Aquarius Mars: Romantically is focused on connecting via the body but has a strong desire to connect mentally that sometimes takes a backseat, causing frustration. Hates to be pressured or clung to. Takes their time forming bonds. 

Taurus Venus + Pisces Mars: Sentimental, affectionate, and romantic. Here this individual can cling to those who offer stability. They are caring and likes to please. They win others over with pretty words and their combined sensitivity and solidarity. 

[dramyhsturgis]

Halloween Countdown 2018, Day 25

(Art by Blackbirdmotel.)

Here’s another recommendation for great Halloween reading: A Suggestion of Ghosts: Supernatural Fiction by Women 1854-1900, edited by J.A. Mains (Black Shuck Books, 2017, paperback 2018).

You can hear my extended review of the anthology here on the StarShipSofa podcast.

Here is an atmospheric excerpt from a story in the collection, “A Legend of All-Hallow Eve” by Mrs. Georgiana S. Hull (first published in Harper’s Monthly, November 1879):

Glancing listlessly over a newspaper, I discovered that it was All-Saints Day! My terrible night was the eve of All-Saints, the night on which the dead come out of their graves to haunt their old homes. All the year silent and low they lie, and then, with a longing for the old home, they creep out this one night to enter the old haunts. While we sleep, the house-place swarms with the poor ghosts. This is their penance and expiation for deeds done in the flesh, until the soul in the fullness of perfection shall enter into possession of the divine. The false witness, the profligate, the murderer, the unforgiving, the miser, the sensualist, the uncharitable – it may be their hell to thus come back one night in the year, stung by an avenging Nemesis, until, their penance done, they are wafted over the Styx. The good ghosts sleep, and are troubled with no waking.

And so I thought with a dazed brain, until the dark recesses of the great gloomy room seemed peopled with phantoms, waiting in misery for their Prospero to shake off their shackles of bondage…

[krinsbez]

Original Superhero/Science-Adventurer Concept: Brents and Braun

So, last night, after watching a video about the Five Man Band trope I had a brainstorm, and in the past day, what was originally a vague idea for a superhero duo based on a pun has transformed into Challs/FF/Jonny Quest-type idea about a science-adventurer team/quasi-family. So, here goes...

-Dr. Bebe Braun is 6′8″ tall, of mixed African, Scandinavian, Russian, German, and Samoan ancestry and has a physical build such that the word “fat“ is inadequate; she prefers to refer to herself as “vast”. She’s also a genius polymath with multiple doctorates, which she has exploited both to benefit mankind and amass a vast fortune. She combines intense scientific curiosity and adventurousness with tremendous willpower, while also being intensely neophilic and an unabashed sensualist, a combination of personality traits that result in her always being up to trying new things. She has, through intense meditation and focusing of her prodigious will and intellect, over decades, managed to achieve tremendous mental control over her body, ensuring that despite her weight and lifestyle, she is in excellent health, and in fact appears considerably younger than she actually is. Said meditation has also resulted in her obtaining superhuman reflexes and Shadow-style mesmeric abilities, which combined with her titanic size means that she is quite capable of handling herself. Nonetheless, she employs a bodyguard...

-Mrs. Bambi Brent is a former Israeli special forces soldier and master martial artist, and Dr. Braun’s bodyguard. Possesses an Amazonian physique, and is tall for a woman (which means she’s still dwarfed by her gargantuan boss). She is also a powerful spirit medium, in regular contact with an array of ghosts and other supernatural entities, with whom she routinely consults, most notably Vlad II Dracul (AKA Dracula’s father) and his archrival John Hunyadi. A no-nonsense sort with a penchant for sarcasm, who is not shy about proclaiming herself the only sane person around. Really wishes her boss would stop putting all their lives in danger on a whim.

-Mr. Bobby Brent, Mrs. Brent’s husband and Dr. Braun’s lab assistant/housekeeper/cook. A nondescript, bespectacled man of average height and build, notable for his genius-level intellect (though dwarfed by that of his insanely brilliant boss) and superhuman strength and invulnerability owing to means I have yet to determine. A cheerful, easygoing sort, prone to joking. Unlike his wife, finds no fault with Dr. Braun’s eccentricities, and is always eager to assist her latest adventure, regardless if the goal is exploring or carousing. (note that despite the latter, is scrupulously faithful to his wife whom he worships, a feeling which is mutual; they are almost sickeningly in love)

-Ms. Barbie Brent is...complicated. She is a genetically engineered, gender-reversed clone of Mr. Brent’s nephew from a a post-apocalyptic alternate future (note that neither the person she was cloned from nor his parent existed in this reality). She resembles her namesake in appearance (albeit with a darker skin tone and epicanthic folds) and has an almost comparable array of skills. Has something of a “barbarian warrior” aesthetic going on, and has the fighting skills to back it up, but is a formidable sorceress. In her native reality, she was created to be the ideal leader of an enclave seeking to rebuild civilization in the wake of the apocalyptic catastrophe that ended the world as we know it, and did the job so well that she ultimately chose to go into exile when she realized they were becoming too dependent on her; she took being scooped out of her native reality by one of Dr. Braun’s inventions in stride. As a natural leader, she routinely takes command of Dr. Braun’s expeditions. She’s wound kinda tight, and has certain degree of fish-out-of-water naivete, but she’s making a concerted effort to loosen up.

-Beta II is a super-computer created to A: serve as Dr. Braun’s secretary and B: predict the future, both of which it is very good at. Tends to utilize an assortment of drone bodies to accompany the family on adventures. Was programmed to possess a strong moral code and sense of ethics, and has evolved a warm, compassionate, and empathetic personality to go along with it.

[sunsedge]

The Picture of Dorian Gray/Importance of Being Earnest (Book Review, Spoilers)

All characters in the book were well developed and one could foresee how they would act.

The white-rose boyishness of Dorian to the gruesome descent into corruption and inhumanity were well charted out but I stopped caring about Dorian mid-way through the book. The young beautiful sensualist, didn't he deserve some drugs and sexual escapades on his way down? I skipped the entire section dedicated to strange stuff like perfumes, world music etc in flowery language- Maybe it was debauchery in those times. Now we call such people civilized and prime cuts of the society.

Lord Harry was very witty, extremely and painfully and paradoxically so sometimes. For example: It takes corruption to make one civilized. Contradictory and intimidating statements like these left me scratching my head.

Or about females:

No woman is a genius. Women are a decorative sex. They never have anything to say, but they say it charmingly.

Not to say he didn't have genuine gems too like:

The one charm of marriage is that it makes a life of deception absolutely necessary for both parties. I never know where my wife is, and my wife never knows what I am doing. When we meet we tell each other the most absurd stories with the most serious faces.

One can't stand other people having the same faults as ourselves.

There is only one thing in the world worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about.

Laughter is not at all a bad beginning for a friendship, and it is by far the best ending for one.

This book was witty, flowery, and a little too long for my taste and the message. Overall rating: 3/5

Fin.

***

The Importance of Being Earnest: This madcap farce is a breezy, quick, hilarious, and completely sensational read! I howled with laughter, I don't think I have ever read anything wittier in my life. I recommend it to everyone I know because this is a worthy time investment.

“If you are not too long, I will wait for you all my life.”

“Never speak disrespectfully of Society, Algernon. Only people who can’t get into it do that.”

“If I am occasionally overdressed, I make up for it by being always immensely over-educated.”

"To lose one parent, Mr. Worthing, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness."

Overall rating: 10/10

PS: Any others recs of plays from Oscar Wilde? Or something witty like the importance of being Earnest