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rotworld · 1 year ago

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7: Metamorphosis

(previous)

the girl goes home. you visit an old friend.

->sexually suggestive. contains mild gore, ear penetration, terato, mentions of drugging, mentions of child trafficking and child abuse.

The last leg of the journey is always a thing of wonder. You unfold your crumpled, egg-stained map and marvel at the neatness of the reality, the momentary certainty of things. This is the understanding you carved out in a corner of the world. This is how far you’ve come. The Drift is mercurial. It won’t last. These cities will have scattered again, these roads you thought you knew winding in strange, new ways. But for now, for just a moment, you bask in a sense of wearied accomplishment. You are still here, despite everything.

There were tears this morning. Albie drew a map of his own depicting his family’s corner of Verlinda, landmarks painstakingly rendered in colored pencils scribbles and labeled with shaky letters. A little cottage in the forest, surrounded by trees, bordered by a stream and many smiling animals, is labeled “MY HOUSE.” He wanted to make sure the girl would be able to find her way back someday. She has it on her lap, neatly folded, clutched in her small hands.

“It’s close,” you tell her.

She watches the scenery with rapt attention, memorizing every detail. “Close,” she agrees, glancing at you in surprise. “How know?”

“See the dirt? It’s kind of a reddish color. And that spicy-sweet smell is from the mulberry gardens.” The sign is just over the hill, exactly as you remember it; a metal slab suspended between old wooden posts, bearing elegant lettering and a curling ribbon design. “Welcome to Compass Hill,” it says, and your heart beats faster in recognition, anticipation and dread. “I grew up here,” you add softly.

[NOW PLAYING ON THE RADIO: HOW YOU REMEMBER BY AZURE RAY]

Roads into Compass Hill are long, decorated promenades of flattened cobblestone and stately scenery. Here is the visitor’s center, glass-paneled and flower-filled like a Victorian greenhouse. There is a lakeside sculpture garden with abstract figures and lanterns dotting the winding footpath. In the distance, the city’s crown jewel, a sprawling campus of red brick cathedrals—the head office and processing factory of Compass Hill Textiles.

“This used to be an awful place,” you say. “Someone might tell you the story later. Not to scare you, but because you should know. People would bring children of the road here because the company would pay them for it.”

You slow as you drive past the textiles building. They’ve kept it maintained, you notice, maybe to avoid suspicion. The lawn is trimmed, the hedges bordering the path up to the front steps neatly manicured. There’s a water fountain with an angel perched on top. The plaque set into the stone commemorates an ancient patriarch of the Dewitt family, a name emblazoned all over town. It was the Dewitts who built the mill, after all, a dynasty of textile magnates made wealthy by the harvest and refinement of exquisite silks.

You point to the factory. “I used to live there. It looks nice from outside, but most of the space is for machinery. Rows and rows of rattling, whirring things that took up whole rooms. The kids who couldn’t weave slept in the cramped, overheated basement, right under all the noise. Eventually, we’d get our license and start delivering silk.” The girl studies the building with a small frown. “It’s different now,” you assure her. “The factory’s closed. Nobody has to sleep on a concrete floor anymore.”

There’s a gate just beyond the factory. Curling wrought iron arches form symmetrical shapes where they meet, an insectoid body with large, sweeping wings. You can hear something just faintly; a buzzing hum. A faraway melody. The gates pull apart with a loud metallic clattering, welcoming you inside. In your rearview mirror, you see a large shape on the roof of the old textile factory. It crouches, spreads its wings, and flits away. The girl sits up sharply, startled and curious.

“Probably went to tell everyone we’re here,” you say.

“Everyone?” she asks. Something catches her eye and she turns back towards the window, her eyes widening.

“Everyone. You’re home.”

Beyond the gate is the true, new Compass Hill, built on the bones of the old. Structures are soft and rounded rather than angular, wispy, cloud-like material woven across the city skyline. Gossamer threads sparkle in dazzling neon shades and subdued earth tones alike. The schoolhouse is a powdery blue dome with rocks and flowers woven around the entrance, while the open air marketplace is adorned with rippling canopy shades and decorative arches. Everything is silk as only Compass Hill knows it, exquisite color and unbelievably versatile texture.

But the girl isn’t looking at the buildings. She’s looking at the people. Peering through honeycomb windows and ambling into the street, a crowd gathers, curiously chittering, all around your car. You stop in the middle of the road to let them see her, and for her to see them. Scaled skin and shimmering carapaces, wings and claws and softly clicking mandibles, bristle-thin hairs and thick, curly manes. The people of Compass Hill are as varied as the silk they spin. A child with slender vespid wings and gangly, striped arms comes right up to the window and the girl stares back at her with tears filling her four eyes.

“Home!” she wails. “Home! Home!” You unlock the door and she tumbles into the waiting arms of family she has only dreamed of. A woman, pale pink and violet with a mantis’ tapered abdomen and sharp, hooked fingers, gently works the knots from the girl’s hair. The hum rises, louder now, a gentle, rolling melody of a thousand voices harmonizing. It’s the Song, welcoming you both. When you step out of the car, you’re swarmed with gentle touches and fond nuzzling.

“You’re back.” There’s a pleased purring beside your ear as four soft, lightly furred arms encircle you from behind. You recognize her quiet, higher-pitched notes before you see her. Chiffon is one of the oldest weavers in Compass Hill, her great wings as thick and heavy as a blanket. She slips in front of you, taking each of your hands in hers, the other two free to cup your face. Her four eyes arch in worry. “Where have you been? And where are you going?”

“I’ll have to show you my map. It’s been a long trip,” you say. Chiffon chitters with laughter, a sound echoed all the way down the street as she passes the joke through the Song. “And I don’t know where I’m going yet. I was in a hurry to get here before the next shift.”

“Your hand…” She’s gentle with it, fingers worrying the skin all around your bandages. “I’ll have a look at this later. You’ll stay the night. Rest. He’ll be so happy to see you.” Your smile wanes. Chiffon squeezes your hands, reassuring but also pleading. “Please,” she sings softer. “Please go see him.”

You hear a delighted warble, the melody rising. The girl looks startled, clutching a wad of fresh, glistening silk in her hand, small string still connected to her mouth. The color is like a sunrise, a blue ombre glinting with strands of gold. One of the old weavers bends down and shows her how to braid it, tying off the ends so it doesn’t fray. “That’s hopesilk,” he says, pausing his singing so she can understand him. “Very strong, and very pretty. Someone believes in you very much.”

You wipe at your eyes and nod at Chiffon. The crowd parts for the two of you as a slow, undulating note enters the Song, a bittersweet melody. They’ve missed you. They wish you’d stay.

The Dewitt estate is at the very edge of town. Similar grand manors and luxurious homes dot the hills but the others are old, fallen into disrepair. The fences have crumbled, the stately brickwork has eroded, and mulberry branches snake out of the broken windows. They are Verlinda’s by right but remain, dilapidated and unoccupied, out of respect for the children of Compass Hill and everything they have endured.

It is only the Dewitt estate, all the way at the top of the hill, that is still maintained. Someone cuts the grass and trims the hedges. Someone fixes the roof when it leaks. Someone leaves food at the door. As you get closer, you hear a piercing scream from somewhere inside. “How is he?” you ask.

Chiffon feels your worry. She chirps a Song of one, fluttering and bird-like. “He’s…better, I think. He spends less and less time here.” She stops when you reach the front porch of the manor. Her wings are drooping, the larger ones folded around her like a shawl. “But he’s still…well. It’s rather shocking inside.”

You march up the steps before you can lose your nerve. There’s another scream—fearful, but also furious. You thought it was just mindless shrieking before but now you can make out words, “wretched” and “ungrateful” and “horrible, abominable thing.” The door is cracked open. The foyer is a mess of broken glass and overturned furniture, old blood stains crusted into the carpet and stuck to the wallpaper. A silver platter has been flung against the wall, shattering a plate and splattering mashed potatoes and a chunk of cooked meat.

There is a man standing in the middle of the foyer, chest heaving and red in the face, screaming at something in the corner. You recognize Mr. Dewitt. He looks more sickly than you recall, sweat shining on his gaunt face. You’ve caught him in the middle of a tirade not unlike the ones you remember from childhood. He was always short-tempered, liable to fly into a rage at the slightest inconvenience. “I want to see my son! You can’t keep him from me! Just you wait, just you wait until they hear about this down at the factory!”

He whirls around at the sound of your footsteps and his wide, bloodshot eyes brighten. “Oh! Oh, it’s you!” he calls, grinning deliriously. His eyes are hazy and he’s not quite looking at you. He wobbles forward, looking inebriated. “You’ve come at the perfect time! I need to get a message down to the factory. Good practice for a courier, hm? Some incompetent let one of the weavers cocoon itself and now we’re stuck with this.” He gestures to the corner, the thing looming there silently. “It’s making demands. Can you tell them to send someone?”

You hesitate just a second too long and he’s screaming again, berating you, calling you a stupid, useless road-mongrel. The thing in the corner lunges forward then, faster than you can see it move. There’s a rush of air and a flash of movement. It lands heavily on top of the man, slamming his head into the floor. It’s your friend, the boy who grew up in this awful place with you. Older now, much bigger, casting a wide shadow with his wings outstretched. You see him tangle his claws in the man’s thinning hair, yanking his head higher. You see him lean in, proboscis unfurling.

“Hello,” he sings. Four eyes peer at you beneath stark white fringe. In adulthood, the silver ones have also turned deep, inky black. “Hello again. I was just thinking of you.”

His proboscis plunges forward like a needle and there’s a sickening crunch and a spurt of blood as it pierces Dewitt’s ear. He shakes and flails uncontrollably, mouth stretched open in a horrified, silent scream, but your friend holds him still; one hand on his head, one on his shoulder, the others easily keeping him pinned beneath the weight of his enormous body. Your friend, the Singer of Compass Hill, vibrates with a welcoming melody, his wings flapping in contentment. His proboscis goes taut and there’s a sick, slurping sound, another gush of blood dribbling down Dewitt’s face and neck.

“Why…is he…?” You swallow your revulsion. The Singer tilts his head slightly, the change in angle churning and squishing wetly against something in Dewitt’s head. The vibration of the song drones just louder than the gurgling screams Dewitt makes.

“He’s drugged. Not certain where or when he is. It’s the same thing he used to give me and all the others.” The Singer’s primary eyes are focused on feeding, but the smaller secondary ones rotate, fixed on you. “You don’t feel bad for him, do you?”

“I’m worried about you.”

The Singer drops Dewitt, proboscis yanking loose with a wet, ripping sound and slithering back into his mouth. He came out of his cocoon differently than all the others. No one else has emerged quite so large. His frilled antenna scrape the high ceiling, his legs bend strangely, and he has six long arms. A ring of thick, white fur circles his neck and drapes over his shoulders. There’s similar patches of fuzz all the way down his body, thinning out across his belly and limbs. His fingers are long and dexterous, warm when they reach out and graze your cheek.

His eyes have changed the least. There are mandibles on either side of his jaw, pearl-white and flexible, a proboscis curled up inside his mouth, but you’ll always recognize his eyes, no matter the color.

“Is he dead?” you say quietly, staring at the body lying limp and face-down on the carpet.

“No. I won’t let him die yet.” The Singer takes your hand in three of his. He turns it over, letting out a low hum in concern at the sight of bandages, the missing finger. “I’ll keep him here, just like I was kept. Except he has the luxury of a house when all I had was that cramped cell in the mountage wing of the factory, a bedroom shaped like a coffin. I’ll use him as he used me, without remorse. He can die when I have nothing to gain from him anymore.”

You tug on his arm, pulling him down to kneel in front of you, and embrace him. The Singer rests his chin and mandibles on your shoulders. His hands all knead the front of your shirt, just like when he was a boy. “I came here to complete a delivery,” you admit. “It’s a child. This is her home.”

The Singer hums appreciatively, nuzzling against your neck. “Yes. Good. I heard the Song. She’ll be safe here. She’ll decide what to do with her own silk. No one will keep her from cocooning and growing up.” His proboscis darts out, tasting the sweat on your throat. “Hope…savory. She grazed on this. You fed her well. There’s more hope here, as much as she could ever want.”

You rub his mandibles and he purrs. “You can have some, if you want. Hope, and whatever else I have.” You feel the vibration of the Song gone slow and deep with interest. He flicks one of his mandibles against your lips, tempted. “You have to eat something other than grudges,” you say gently.

“I can’t stomach much else. But…” He crouches further, pulling you into his lap. You’re settled on one of his thighs, half-turned away from him. He brushes your hair out of the way and caresses the shell of your ear, stroking the lobe with his thumb. “I’ll go very slow. Very gentle. It’s been a long time.”

Now that you’re actually here, clutching the fur on his upper chest, your stomach is flipping nervously. He’s right, it has been a long time. You haven’t fed him since you were both younger, shortly after the change came—he, young and clumsy and still figuring out his new, enormous body, and you, just old enough to drive the Drift. One more time, you’d agreed, before you left town. He couldn’t make silk anymore but it didn’t matter. He just needed to remember how you tasted.

“Hold onto me,” he sings gently. “It’s alright. Hold on tight. You won’t hurt me.” You don’t want to pull on his fur but he pushes your hands more firmly against his chest, encouraging you to dig your fingers in. He clutches your shoulders, your waist, your hips—his grip firm but not bruising. He tries to relax you. He nuzzles against you, splays his mandibles and leaves little kisses along your chin and cheek. His proboscis darts out and flicks against your lips, teasing. He trails higher, following the curve of your jaw.

Your breath hitches when he reaches your ear. He kisses it. His proboscis traces the shell, explores its shallow dips and grooves. Slowly, he lick his way closer to the hole and you let out an involuntary shiver. His hands squeeze all at once in reassurance and hold you still.

“Will you give me something sweet? Something light and airy?” One of the hands on your hip moves inward. Long, graceful fingers slip into your pants and settle on your heated sex. He traces one fingertip slowly up and down, faint and featherlight. Your hips chase the friction. That’s the moment he’s waiting for. You feel his proboscis, cold and smooth, slip easily into your ear canal.

True to his word, he’s slow and gentle. The penetration is a gradual slide, navigating impossibly small spaces to lap at something not entirely physical, nestled at the intersection of thought, feeling and memory. You feel it like the wet slide of a tongue against some place sensitive and you stiffen, eyes rolling back in your head. It’s too much—too much something. Not quite pain or pleasure, not quite anything you can name. But it’s too much. Explosive heat and sandpaper on your nerves, an avalanche of overstimulation.

The hand between your legs barely moves. It’s just two fingers, slender and nimble, rubbing so, so slowly. Up and down. Up and down. Your underwear is damp with your own want and he collects it on his fingertips, uses it to lubricate his steady rhythm. He strokes you right to the edge of madness, crooning softly. You feel the Song behind your eyes, in your brain. You feel all the love it carries.

Your hips jolt and your flinch violently in his grasp. You gasp, or maybe you scream. Your throat is raw when you drift back down into awareness, feeling his proboscis snaking back out and exit with a faint, wet pop. Soothing liquid dribbles out of your ear in his wake, something to numb soreness. You sag against him and catch your breath. He trills, smoothing his palms up and down your body. The hand between your legs comes out of your clothes glistening and sticky.

“What was it?” you asked. Your words are slurred, your tongue still clumsy. “Wh—what’d you taste?”

He wipes the excess fluid from your chin, pressing one last kiss to your ear. It’s starting to tingle. “Nostalgia. Exhaustion. Hope. And…” He pauses, turning your face towards him. “You’ve been having nightmares.”

He lets you avoid the subject and bury your face in his fur. He Sings, swaying gently. You shut your eyes and left your mind drift. Tomorrow, you’ll be leaving. Maybe you can deliver silk, just like the old days—but this silk will be better than Dewitt’s ever was. Made by children who are happy, woven by adults who care about them. Tomorrow, you and the girl will have to say your goodbyes, and you know she’ll ask you about home because she’s kind. And you will smile and lie or maybe say nothing at all, happy for her but stinging with agonizing envy.

“You could stay,” goes the Song, every time you hear it. “Make this home.”

You don’t answer. You never do. The Singer holds you while he still has the chance.

(next)

#rotpeach writes #goretober #the drift #ive had a couple anons mention theyre reading or rereading ritsukas pictures lately #im so glad youre enjoying it!! ;v; that story has a special place in my heart

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vertebrae-entertainment · 2 years ago

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1.25.23 - ‘Anchor’

Hi y’all! Its been a while since we did a proper blog update, so i figured it was time i talk about the thing people usually talk about when i bring up the main character of our fishing game: “whoah, he’s a big dude huh?”

Designing a tough guy

When me and Åge first discussed this project, I told them two things would make me automatically passionate about it. The first was that the main character should be a hot dude, and the second was that he should be transgender. Now, at a glance it doesn't seem that complicated (and it really isn’t). I like hot dudes, I like to draw bulk, and I am a trans man myself. Seeing as we are a two-person team, there’s no CEO to tell me what I can and cannot do, so naturally this was how the basic concept ended up.

Following from there I started designing. I took some amphibious inspiration, building him sort of like a frog- top heavy and with long legs, lending itself well to animating acrobatics. I wanted to make him tall and menacing, with a shadow covering his face to make him seem mysterious. At the same time I couldn't forget his fishing lifestyle. In the end he ended up somewhere between Batman and Popeye, with a sprinkle of elegance for good measure. It turned out to lend itself really well to build him like he was hunting monsters for a living, as that was what the game was turning into.

After settling on a color scheme of black, white and red, and taking inspiration from the simplistic designs of the UPA-revival movement for ease of animation, I figured he needed a tattoo- both to top off the design and hint at his marine connection. The anchor seemed obvious! A symmetrical object right on the middle, plenty of body hair, and our main man was ready for the screen!

The tough guy through a queer lens

I have a huge soft spot for towering tough guys, it's no secret. From Conan to the T-800, this hyper masculine archetype may seem dated and boring to others, but personally I cannot get enough of it. What kind of pressure does it take to make a man two steps from a monster? In an odd sort of way, I suppose I find it relatable. Furthermore, I always find masculinity as a topic lends itself really well to a transgender lens- it's like free nuance! It is one thing to be born into this cruel, limiting role.. But what does it tell of a character, their story, when it is a choice?

Some people express confusion learning that this fisherman is transgender, which drives the question: should you be able to tell? Frankly, I think there should be a hell of a lot more trans men in media before we tackle this question. Assuming someone can’t be genetically tall and bulky due to the gender assigned at birth is an awfully dated idea to begin with, in my humble opinion.

I am out here making what I would like to see a trans man in a videogame do, which is be huge, wrestle monsters and kiss cute guys. A topic me and Åge started tackling back in the Liquid State days was the concept of a trans power fantasy- which is exactly what it reads on the tin. While there are few men (trans and not) who fit into the shapely mold of a hyper masculine, sword-swinging barbarian god, many admire these characters and live out their fantasies through them.

Besides, you can tell! We specifically make excuses to show off his shark-teeth patterned top surgery scars because we want people to know. Hey, are you a trans guy that likes bulky dudes? This one’s for you!

In conclusion

While my inspirations are deceptively simple and reasons are uncomplicated, I often catch myself thinking about this design. Is it realistic? Is it alienating? Is it empowering? Is it wise? Even if he was designed straight from a trans man’s gut with no worries about the greater question of good representation, I often find myself thinking as though the task of representing all trans men lies solely on my shoulders. It is an unrealistic, unfair expectation. I am not all trans men, neither is he.

His design and background is a love letter to one of my favorite types of characters, no doubt mixed in with years of queer, man-loving brain soup. He is what I like, and what I want to see in a video game. At the end of the day, I can only hope that what I enjoy also appeals to others.

So far, all signs point to yes. :)

This is our fanart wall, right by my desk at our office. I put them right where i can see them every day. Thanks for the support, folks- it means the world to me.

-Hauk Want to know more? Follow us here or on Twitter for regular updates on this project- or click here to join our discord!

#untitled fishing game #gamedev #indie game #lgbt gaming #gay pride #trans pride #transmasc #queer #GameMaker #fishing game #fishing rpg #fishing platformer #character art #character design #character concept #devblog #indiedev #ever wanted to do hardass fishing as the most shredded trans guy in existence? this game is for you too

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duxiaomin-blog · 5 months ago

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The Aesthetic Similarities and Differences between Baroque, Rococo, and French Chinoiserie

In the fields of art and architecture, the aesthetic styles of different periods exhibit distinct characteristics that reflect the social, cultural, and historical changes of their times. Baroque, Rococo, and French Chinoiserie, as three different aesthetic movements, emerged at different stages of European history, each presenting a unique and diverse artistic appearance.

The Baroque style originated in 17th-century Italy and quickly spread throughout Europe. Its core concept is to express emotion through exaggeration and movement while emphasizing grandeur and solemnity. During the Baroque period, artists often used rich decorations, curved lines, and sculptures to create a strong religious or political atmosphere. Typical architectural features include large domes, symmetrical structures, and lavish decorations. In terms of aesthetic concepts, Baroque works frequently used gold alongside deep, rich colors to emphasize the solemnity of religion and politics, focusing on the expression of the sacred and authoritative, with a tendency towards a more masculine aesthetic.

The Jesuit Church in Vienna (German: Jesuitenkirche) is a two-story, twin-towered church influenced by the early Baroque style, redesigned by Andrea Pozzo between 1703 and 1705. Although its exterior is relatively plain, the interior is adorned with lavish faux marble columns, classic domes typical of Baroque architecture, symmetrical structures, gilded decorations, and numerous allegorical ceiling frescoes. The ceiling is divided into four compartments, with the frescoes employing trompe-l’œil techniques to create an illusion of depth, simulating a dome, even though they are painted on flat sections of the ceiling. This is a true masterpiece of the Baroque period.

In Rubens’ paintings, he creates a strong sense of dynamism in the figures and scenes through vivid poses, flowing compositions, and rich colors. By using bright, full, and impactful colors with strong contrasts between light and dark, he enhances the dramatic and captivating quality of the artwork. This drama, generated by the dynamic postures and the contrast between deep and saturated colors, is a key characteristic of paintings from the Baroque period.

The Rococo style, which emerged in 18th-century France, developed as an evolution and resistance to the Baroque style. While it inherited the sense of movement from Baroque, featuring rich curves and surfaces, Rococo diverged by emphasizing lightness, elegance, and whimsy. Its decorations were generally more delicate and lighter than those of the Baroque. Starting from the late 17th century, Europe was influenced by Chinese imports and the accounts and writings of missionaries, reaching a peak during the reign of Louis XV. As a result, the Rococo style was heavily influenced by the Oriental aesthetics of Chinoiserie, featuring asymmetric compositions and incorporating Eastern motifs such as scrolling vines and floral and bird patterns, with a greater focus on expressions of nature. Influenced by these Eastern aesthetics, the color palette shifted away from the solemn and oppressive tones of Baroque to softer pastels, focusing more on personal emotions and emphasizing a relaxed, joyful, and sensual atmosphere. It represents an aesthetic inclined towards feminine sensibilities.

From the Rococo-style gilded carved wooden mirrors in the Sotheby collection, one can clearly see the asymmetrical compositions derived from Oriental aesthetics and the Rococo’s classic pursuit of lavish decoration. This includes the gilding inherited from the Baroque style and the lightness and dynamic movement in the floral and vine decorations.

The true Chinoiserie began in the late 13th century when the Italian Marco Polo visited the Yuan Dynasty’s capital and reached its peak in the mid-18th century, influencing nearly every European country. The emergence of French Chinoiserie indirectly influenced the development of the Rococo style, uniquely blending Chinese elements with traditional European art. French Chinoiserie introduced Chinese motifs, expressing a longing for exotic cultures. Overall, French Chinoiserie features distinct Chinese characteristics, such as Chinese figures with hats, buildings with upturned eaves, and asymmetrical compositions, while incorporating European traditional art aesthetics. This includes the integration with the Rococo style, the light and shadow techniques upheld in Boucher’s paintings, the full-bodied European forms, and various fantastical imaginations about China. This made French Chinoiserie a new style, a European fantasy about China, and a cross-cultural aesthetic experience.

The “Shimmering Crane” brooch by Chucui Palace, a high-end jewelry brand with roots in an Italian jewelry family from the mid-20th century, showcases French Chinoiserie jewelry that emphasizes the curves and surfaces characteristic of the Rococo style. The entire piece displays a strong sense of movement created by its flowing curves, embodying a “wind-and-water” dynamic. The design features the classic Chinoiserie asymmetrical composition and uses soft pastel blues, a color choice inspired by the Rococo palette. Beyond these Rococo influences, the piece draws inspiration from the traditional Chinese ink painting technique of shading, meticulously setting various shades of blue gemstones to achieve the purity and gradient effects of ink washes. The entire piece highlights the deep connections between French Chinoiserie, Rococo style, and traditional Chinese elements.

Among the Sotheby’s collection is a gilt-bronze ornament from the reign of Louis XV, featuring German porcelain of a “Chinese family” motif. This piece of French Chinoiserie is adorned with a Chinese-style pavilion with a pagoda roof and three groups of Chinese figures. However, the figures’ full-bodied forms and the delicate decoration with rococo scroll leaves and gilding remain distinctly European and Rococo in style. While incorporating elements of porcelain, the piece engages with it through a European sculptural approach, imbuing the entire work with the dramatic tension inherent in French Chinoiserie’s cross-cultural blend of materials, elements, and expressions, making it highly valuable artistically.

At the intersection of aesthetics, Baroque, Rococo, and French Chinoiserie each bloom with unique brilliance, presenting a rich and colorful artistic realm. Baroque contributes its grandeur and solemnity, Rococo offers lightness and elegance, and French Chinoiserie provides a wondrous blend of exotic cultures, together forming an exquisite artistic tapestry. These three styles not only reflect the cultural essence of their respective eras but also create new aesthetic possibilities at their intersections. In this fusion of arts, we witness the continuity of history and the integration of cultures. This is not only a celebration of art but also a dialogue across time and space, awakening the viewer’s sensitivity and curiosity towards diverse cultures. It embodies the inclusiveness and innovation of aesthetics, showcasing the eternal allure of art.

#art #jewelry

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humanpersonface · 1 year ago

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NO nonono. It's even funnier than that. Bc I could be corrected here but from my art history knowledge "grotesque" DOES come from "grotto" but SPECIFICALLY a style of art that became very popular in the Renaissance in the 16th century. Because some ancient Roman vacation palace was discovered underground-- if I remember correctly some kid in the Italian countryside fell into a hole and when they got him out he was like "there's some mad crazy shit down here" so they had a fun little Renaissance archeology dig. They called this palace a "grotto" because it was underground and cave-like.

What was important about this grotto was that because it was underground the frescoes on the walls were suuuuper well preserved. At this point most examples of ancient Roman architecture didn't have any frescoes still on it because weather and exposure had wiped it away. (Remember Pompeii wasn't really dug up yet) and the Italian Renaissance was all about the rebirth of Acient Rome so these bitches went FERAL over this discovery. They were so fucking amped about getting examples of Ancient Roman decorative styles that they had previously had no way of knowing about. The main decorative style evident?

This. These types of semi symmetrical, arabesque decorative motifs often featuring hybrid creatures of plant, animal and humans. Renaissance artists went ape shit for this and it started showing up EVERYWHERE. It was called "grotteschi" (meaning, as you pointed out in your initial post-- "grotto- esque" or "from the grotto") see below

Here's some in the Vatican painted by Raphael in the loggia of Pope Leo X.

Here's the dealio, though, you may notice that the grotesque borders here don't have as much hybrid figures. That's because the Church had a complicated relationship with grotesque art. Because yes it was Ancient Roman and they liked that but also a lot of the hybrid forms and monsters evoked the pagan roots of Rome and they did not like that. So churches had some weird hangups and rules about using it. For real I won't get into it any further because I literally wrote a paper about Raphael's use of grotesque/hybridity in this loggia and the Stanza Della Signatura as symbolizing Christianity purifying the dangers of paganism. I won't get into it. But it's real fun.

ANYHOW partially because of this pagan association and partially because of the literal hybrid creatures in the artwork, "grotesque" art became associated with fantastical and specifically monstrous forms. It started being applied to stuff that wasn't strictly speaking actual grotesque style art-- for instance gargoyles-- particularly as the decorative form spread outside of Italy and up north.

With all of this, some scholars who were pro the "elegant" Renaissance style of the south started using "grotesque" actually as a negative to describe the northern Gothic cathedrals that they didn't like largely due to things like gargoyles and such.

So I'm sure I'm butchering parts of it by writing this all on the fly from memory and I'm sure I simplified it a lot, but that's why "grotesque" came to mean "ugly or monstrous"!

So babygirl you look like a funky lil pagan plant bird monster with ya tiddies out.

PS-- one if the neatest tidbits I remember reading about grotesque was that when Christian missions in South America started making indigenous ppl build/pray in churches, sometimes the indigenous ppl would use the borderline "acceptable" decorative style of grotesque to hide imagery of their own religion/stories/dieties in the figures. That way they could continue praying to their own religion under the pos missionaries' noses.

fascinated by the etymology of the word "grotesque" because the "-esque" suffix implies that it means "like grot" or "resembling grot" which sure is something

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thejaipurloomkids · 11 months ago

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Perfect Crop Top Skirt for Girls, Types, Dress-up according to Body Type & Event

The summertime vibes are in the air, the sun is shining, and the days are getting longer. Embracing the summertime with the classic crop top and skirt combination couldn't be simpler. Whether you're going for festival cool, urban improvement, or beach chic, there are countless ways to express your style with this versatile combination. But it might not be easy to understand the expanse of skirts and crop tops. Fashionistas, do not fear! Let's get started! This article will provide you with all the tips and methods you need to put together the perfect combination.

For many occasions, crop tops and skirts are among the sexiest, cutest, and most adaptable clothing options. There is a wide variety of skirts to choose from, including long, pencil, high-waisted, and tiny skirts. Some give your look an elegant aspect, while others give it a colourful vibe. Some skirts also give you that additional playful touch to ensure that people remember who you are.

Knowing Your Body Type before add Crop Top Skirt for Girls in Wardrobe

Most importantly, accept the shape of your body! For every shape and size, there's a crop top and skirt set out there for you. Here's a quick guide to finding silhouettes that flatter your figure:

Pear-shaped:

Wear a fitted crop top and a flowy midi skirt to balance out your broader hips. Styles with a high waist bring attention to your waist.

Apple-shaped:

If you want a symmetrical look, choose skirts with a wide waist or an A-line shape. For a casual style, pair them with baggy tops or cropped peplums.

Hourglass-shaped:

Flaunt off your curves with crop tops and bodycon skirts. Experiment with beautiful patterns and prints.

Petite:

Wear shorter crop tops and high-waisted skirts to give the appearance of length. Additionally, vertical stripes lengthen your body.

Curvy:

Adore your natural curves! Embrace crop tops and fitted skirts that comfortably fit your figure. For a flattering look, use fabrics that are soft and drapey.

Types of Crop Top Skirt for Girls:

Now explore some beautiful skirts:-

1.Mini Skirts:

Colourful and playful, these skirts are perfect for showcasing your legs. For a daytime outing, pair them with sneakers and a casual crop top; for an evening out, style them up with shoes and an elegant top.

2. Midi Skirts:

Stylish and adaptable, midi skirts add elegance without compromising comfort. For a formal appearance, pair them with cropped sweaters or blazers; alternatively, go bohemian with flowing tops and sandals.

3.Maxi Skirts:

Lightweight and relaxed maxi skirts are the perfect choice for hot summer days. For a beachy feel, go for flowing fabrics and colourful prints; alternatively, go for elegant, fitted styles for a fashionable appearance.

Crop Top Skirt for Girls with High-Waisted Skirts:

Wearing high-waisted skirts is a great process for improving your self-confidence regarding that small fat lump on your stomach. High-waisted skirts look great with crop tops because most crop tops partially expose the upper body. A tight skirt with a high waist might look fantastic with a bell-sleeved crop top. Formal clothing options include pencil skirts with a high waist and crop tops. It's a unique way to style a crop top. You also get the hourglass shape you've always wanted. Don't believe us? See how your appearance changes for the day by giving a try on a Girls Crop Top Skirt for Festive from The Jaipur Loom Kids.

Crop Top Skirt for Girls with A Long Skirt:

The pairing of a The Jaipur Loom Kids crop top skirt is a timeless fashion combination that offers both versatility and attractive charm. From beachy bohemian vibes to city-chic elegance, this dynamic duo can be adapted to a multitude of styles and occasions.

Choosing a contrasting colour pattern for your combination is a good place to start if you're having trouble pulling off the crop top and long skirt look. With the appropriate accessories, a top and long skirt, for example, look great for breakfast or an evening out. Wearing a long skirt with a high waist and a crop top is a fantastic alternative to wearing this combo.

Remember to dress according to your personal style and comfort level while keeping the festive theme in mind. Have fun with your outfit, and enjoy the celebration! If you want to make your girl child more beautiful and charming, try The Jaipur Loom Kids crop top skirt for girls and the other Buy ethnic kids wear with different patterns or prints and quality.

Crop Top Skirt for Girls with Short Skirt

Choose breathable fabrics and styles that allow for freedom of movement. Feeling comfortable boosts confidence and lets you truly enjoy your outfit. Experiment with Kids Crop Top Skirt for Diwali with different styles and find what makes you feel good about yourself. Crop top skirt for girls give you a more elegant or charming look to your beauty. Your child looks more adorable in a crop top skirt.

Festive wear Crop Top Skirt for Girls

For a festive look with a girls' crop top and skirt, you'll want to aim for something stylish, comfortable, and appropriate for the occasion.

Look for Traditional crop top skirt for girls adorned with festive elements like metallic embellishments, sequins, or bright colours. A crop top with some sparkle can make an enormous impact on the overall look. For more flair, think of off-the-shoulder, halter neck, or lace embellishment styles. Match the crop top with an elegantly tailored skirt that enhances the top. For a celebratory event, a flowing mid-length skirt in satin or chiffon would be perfect. Select skirts that match the occasion's theme by looking for ones with vibrant designs, flowery motifs, or rich colours.

Diwali wear Crop Top Skirt for Girls

For Diwali, a festival celebrated with great pomp and splendour, you'll want to dress your child in something vibrant, comfortable, and culturally appropriate. Select a crop top that features beading, mirror work, or embroidery, which are typical Indian embellishments. Try to stay away from dark hues like pink, orange, red, or gold, which are often connected to Diwali festivities. For this occasion, styles like peplum tops, short kurtis, and cholis would be appropriate. Wear a completing or matching skirt with the crop top. For Diwali, a lehenga skirt, crop top skirt, ghagra with elaborate embroidery, or traditional designs like block, ikat, or bandhani would be perfect. Because kids are likely to be involved in a lot of different activities and festivities, choose skirts that fit comfortably around the waist and allow for flexibility.

#Kids Wear #Kids Clothing

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homedecor-shop-online · 1 year ago

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Invite calmness: An In-Depth Look at Minimalist Living Room decor

Our homes should be an escape from reality amid the fast-paced world we live in. A place where we can relax, enjoy, and forget about our day. While magic does not belong in this world to instantly transform our lives, we can take smaller steps to make our space a home.

You don’t need to go overboard when it comes to decor as well. Transforming your living room can be a good start. In this blog, we will explore the art of minimalist decor and provide a thorough how-to for achieving a calm environment through well-considered design decisions. In this blog, we will also mention a few products that can be used as decorative items for living room. So let’s get started.

Simple Yet Impactful Living Room Decor Ideas

1. Thoughtful Wall Decor: Paintings and Wall Arts

When choosing wall art, choose art pieces with straightforward, soothing patterns. Choose an item that captures your essence while adhering to a simple style. For example, visual interest can be achieved without being unduly complex in a large abstract painting with a restricted colour palette. This ‘Night Village Scenes’ painting can be a simple yet effective addition to your living room.

Examine the idea of a gallery wall with a minimalist touch to develop this further. Select a group of tiny, coordinating pieces of art that together convey a narrative. This enables creative expression in a small space in addition to adding visual interest.

2. Simple Sculpture: Figures and Idols

Because you are working in small spaces, too many big decorations, like paintings, can be overwhelming. Small and creative figurines orshowpieces for living room are quite effective when decorating small rooms. Figurines and idols can effectively convey a theme of simplicity. A calm Buddha statue thoughtfully positioned on a shelf or a tiny wooden figurine crafted by hand can evoke a sense of simplicity. These objects can also be multi-functional. For example, this ‘Cat Mouth Open', aside from being a cute decorative object, can also be used to store keys or candy.

3. Functional Elegance: Wall Shelves and Display Cases

Adding wall shelves to a small living room is a wise design choice. Let no one tell you otherwise. Select streamlined, understated decorative objects for living room. When you ornament a floating shelf with a few well-chosen succulents, a framed portrait, or a tiny piece of abstract art, it becomes both aesthetically beautiful and utilitarian.

Brass hanging diyas, candle holders, your book collection, or even small vases can be placed on the shelves. Floating shelves can literally broaden your creativity without taking up too much of your space.

The Grace of Equilibrium

A room feels more organised when it is symmetrical. Finding equilibrium, especially in a limited living area, is essential. Think about symmetrical configurations, such as a pair of identical vases on a console table or matching end tables on either side of the sofa. It creates a sense of balance in the visuals without appearing cluttered.

Introduce mirrored decor pieces to further explore the idea of symmetry. An elegant touch is added along with a sense of additional space thanks to a well-placed mirror. A set of mirrored trays or a coffee table would be great for their visual appeal and practicality.

Quality over Quantity in Mindful Curation

Every object in minimalism should have a purpose. Make deliberate choices for high-quality decor components. One thing that must be avoided at all costs is mass-produced decor, as it is most likely low in quality. Without overcrowding the room, a single, expertly made decorative dish on the coffee table or a thoughtfully selected abstract sculpture can make a big statement. To keep the decor feeling dynamic and new, switch up the pieces on a regular basis rather than sticking with a predetermined selection. As a result, a carefully chosen aesthetic can be achieved without running the risk of overcrowding the space.

The Power of Blank Space

Last but not least, do not underestimate the power of blank spaces. Blank space is a design decision that enhances the room's attractiveness, not only the absence of ornamentation. When decorating a tiny living room, avoid covering every wall. Give areas room to breathe while paying attention to their location. One statement piece on a wall that creates a focal point without overpowering the space is a perfect example.

Conclusion

The ideas of minimalism provide direction when designing a calm and clutter-free tiny living area. Every object has a function; wall decor is thoughtfully chosen for its calming effect; and blank space is made intentional. A calm refuge can be created in your small living space by embracing a neutral colour scheme, adding sculptured simplicity and practical elegance, and carefully choosing your decor. The key to minimalism is making deliberate decisions that result in a peaceful and harmonious living environment, not only in what you choose to include.

If you are looking to start your home decor transformation, Satguru’s should be at the centre of this transformation. They are one of thebest gift shops online, renowned for their showpieces and paintings. Along with decor items, you can also buy functional decor like dinner sets or tea sets that can also be a good addition to your kitchen decor. Visit their website to learn more about their services.

#modernindianpaintingsonline #giftshopsonline #ganeshaidolsatgurus

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daily-quiz-join · 1 year ago

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Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the forgotten genius: The Architect Behind the Taj Mahal, Red Fort

The Taj Mahal, often described as the "jewel of India," is an architectural marvel that has captured the hearts and imaginations of people around the world. While it is a symbol of eternal love and an iconic masterpiece, the man behind its design and construction, Ustad Ahmad Lahori, remains relatively less known. In this article, we will explore the life, contributions, and enduring legacy of Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the genius architect responsible for bringing the Taj Mahal to life.

Table: Important Details about Ustad Ahmad Lahori

DetailInformationFull NameUstad Ahmad LahoriBirth DateApproximately 1580 (Exact date uncertain)BirthplaceLahore, Mughal Empire (Present-day Pakistan)Death DateAfter 1648 (Exact date uncertain)Place of ActivityPrimarily Agra and Delhi, Mughal EmpireDynastyThe Mughal EmpireNotable WorksTaj Mahal, Red Fort (Agra), Badshahi Mosque (Lahore)Architectural StyleMughal architectureInfluenceContributions to Indo-Islamic architecture Early Life and Education Ustad Ahmad Lahori's early life is shrouded in mystery, with few details available about his upbringing and family background. Born around 1580 in Lahore, which was part of the Mughal Empire, he likely grew up in an environment influenced by the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the region. Apprenticeship and Mentorship During his formative years, Ahmad Lahori would have been exposed to the architectural wonders of the Mughal Empire, including the magnificent structures commissioned by Emperor Akbar. It is believed that he received his architectural education and training under the guidance of experienced architects and craftsmen of his time. Association with the Mughal Court Ahmad Lahori's exceptional talent and skills in architecture eventually led him to the heart of the Mughal Empire, where he would become a prominent figure in the realm of architectural design. Arrival in Agra Ahmad Lahori's journey to architectural prominence began when he relocated to Agra, the imperial capital of the Mughal Empire, during the reign of Emperor Jahangir. Here, he would start making significant contributions to the architectural landscape of the city. Notable Works in Agra: - Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb: Ahmad Lahori played a role in the design and construction of this elegant marble tomb, often referred to as the "Baby Taj." - Agra Fort: He made substantial contributions to the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its impressive architecture and historical significance. Design and Construction of the Taj Mahal Ustad Ahmad Lahori's most celebrated work is undoubtedly the Taj Mahal, a monument that has become synonymous with beauty, love, and architectural perfection. Shah Jahan's Vision The creation of the Taj Mahal was commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan, who was deeply devoted to his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Shah Jahan envisioned a mausoleum that would not only be a tribute to her memory but also an enduring symbol of their eternal love. Design Influence: Shah Jahan's vision drew inspiration from Persian and Islamic architectural styles, reflecting his commitment to creating a timeless masterpiece that would transcend generations. Architectural Brilliance The Taj Mahal is celebrated for its breathtaking architectural features, each of which bears the imprint of Ustad Ahmad Lahori's genius. Key Architectural Features: - White Marble Façade: The exterior of the Taj Mahal is adorned with intricate inlay work, including semi-precious stones such as lapis lazuli and jasper, against a backdrop of pristine white marble. - Symmetry and Balance: The monument is perfectly symmetrical, with the main tomb at its center and four minarets framing the structure, creating an optical illusion of ethereal beauty. Construction Techniques The construction of the Taj Mahal was a monumental undertaking, requiring innovative engineering techniques, meticulous planning, and a vast workforce. Notable Techniques: - Persian Chahar Bagh: The Taj Mahal is situated within a Persian-style garden (Chahar Bagh) divided into four quadrants by water channels, emphasizing its symmetry and beauty. - Double Dome: The monument features a double dome, an architectural marvel that enhances its grandeur while ensuring structural stability. Legacy and Impact Ustad Ahmad Lahori's legacy as an architect is intrinsically tied to the Taj Mahal, a monument that continues to awe and inspire people from all walks of life. Global Icon of Love and Beauty The Taj Mahal stands as a universal symbol of love, architectural excellence, and artistic grandeur. It has transcended cultural and geographical boundaries to become a source of inspiration for artists, poets, and lovers worldwide. Cultural Significance: Its enduring appeal is a testament to Ustad Ahmad Lahori's extraordinary skills in capturing the essence of beauty and romance through architecture. Influence on Mughal Architecture Ustad Ahmad Lahori's contributions to Mughal architecture extended beyond the Taj Mahal, significantly shaping the architectural landscape of the Mughal Empire. Architectural Style: He played a pivotal role in defining and popularizing the Mughal architectural style, characterized by grandeur, symmetry, and intricate detailing. UNESCO World Heritage Sites Several of Ahmad Lahori's creations, including the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort, have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ensuring their preservation for future generations. Historical Preservation: His works continue to be celebrated for their historical and cultural significance, safeguarding the rich heritage of the Mughal Empire. Conclusion Ustad Ahmad Lahori, a master architect of the Mughal Empire, left an indelible mark on the world through his masterpiece, the Taj Mahal. His artistic brilliance, meticulous craftsmanship, and unwavering commitment to Emperor Shah Jahan's vision brought forth one of the most iconic and enduring monuments in human history. As millions of visitors continue to be enchanted by the Taj Mahal's timeless beauty, they pay homage to the genius of Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the true architect behind this architectural marvel. His legacy lives on in the resplendent white marble of the Taj Mahal, a sublime tribute to love, beauty, and architectural grandeur. Read the full article

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limabeanz99 · 3 years ago

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STORY TIME!! meeks being so in love with you at christmas and all the poets especially your bestie charlie, are trying to help find the perfect gift for you:

(fyi y/n/n = your nick name)

“I’m stressing out I just don’t know what to get her” Meeks says with a loud sigh. “Relax! You’re starting to sound like Knoxious over there”, Charlie says while pointing to Knox who is too focused on making a scrapbook for him and Chris. “He’s right Meeks, you know Y/n better than she knows herself! Just go with your gut and whatever you get her she’ll love”, Neil says with an extremely ensuring tone. Stephen leans farther back into the couch racking his brain for the perfect gift for Y/n with the stress of Christmas being right around the corner.

“CHARLIEEEEEEEEE”, you yell in a sing-song voice as you skip down the hall with a small brown store bag clutched tightly in your hand. “Y/NNNNNNNN”, Charlie screams back as he rushes out of his dorm room to greet you. You pull Charlie into your room and shut the door so no one can see the contents of the bag. “I finally finished my Christmas shopping. I found the perfect gift for Stephen” you say with a big smile. You hand the bag to Charlie and he pulls out a small box. Charlie opens the box and just stares when he finally says, “What the hell is this?” “Charlie it’s a antique pocket watch! Meeks has been talking about how he’s wanted one ever since he saw his fathers old pocket watch. He says he loves the mechanics and the style of them” Charlie just stared trying to figure out how Meeks could not see that you are madly in love with the red headed boy. Charlie finally smiled and said, “He’ll love it Y/n/n”. The rest of the evening you and Charlie spent wrapping gifts, although you ended up doing most of the wrapping since Charlie was busy battles his new archenemy, the tape dispenser”

After a conversation with you between classes about how you had found the perfect gift for him, Meeks was feeling the pressure. He had made all the poets sit and help come up with ideas for gifts. One evening, Neil and Todd took Stephen to their favorite antique shop that had tons of random things that have been collected by the owners for decades. While Todd and Neil were checking out some vintage cameras, Meeks was sat in a floral printed chair tucked in a corner sulking about his dilemma. The older couple who ran the store were fixing some displays when the older gentleman walked up to Stephen. “Son, you’re too young to be sad about life. You ought ta’ cheer up some”. Meeks sighed and explained how he couldn’t find the perfect gift for you for Christmas. By now the older man’s wife had joined them but Todd and Neil were still busy being a cute couple and making people jealous. “It sounds like your girls means the world to you”, the older man said. “Sir, you have no idea but she’s not my girl yet”Stephen replied. The older man chuckled, “trust me young man, I do have an idea. I’ve been married to Darla for 54 years and counting” he said grabbing the ladies hand as she smiled at him. “Before we were married I was love sick and was bending over backwards trying to make everything perfect for her”. “He didn’t know that I loved him no matter what”, added Darla. She motioned for Stephen to get up and follow her saying, “Come on young man let’s see if we can find a gift for your girl”. “Darla will give you the best advice son”, the man said as Darla showed Meeks around the store. As they were walking, Darla began to describe the best gift Stephen could give, “You’ll want to get her something she can see every day that will remind her of how you feel about her”. They walked by a cute table adorned with many different nick-nacks. There were a few items that looked like candle stick holders that had different pieces of jewelry set on top of them. Immediately Stephen took notice of a small, dainty gold ring with a rectangular ruby. It was small and quiet yet elegant and symmetrical. He closed his eyes and pictured putting it on Y/n’s finger. Darla noticed the look on Stephens face indicating that he had found the perfect gift.

They walked back to the front of the store where Todd and Neil were waiting. Darla and her husband rang up their items while Stephen was telling them about the ring. The entire ride back to Welton, Stephen just stared at the ring in the box. He found the perfect gift that described how he felt just like Darla said. It showed how Stephen felt when went ice skating on a pond and Y/n did tons of leaps and twirls then grabbed Stephens hand and pretend like they were dancing. Or how he felt when the poets had a snowball fight and afterwards Y/n clung to Meeksie for warmth as settled in for a movie and popcorn. He thought the ring would show Y/n just how much he loved her.

On the morning of Christmas, the poets got together to have their own Christmas in a study room before they left to be with their families. They all exchanged gifts, ate candy, and laughed as the told stories about each other. After a while, everyone went to prepare to leave expect for Y/n and Stephen. They stayed behind to exchange their gifts in private. Y/n gave Stephen his gift first and Meeks gushed over the pocket watch he received, appreciative of the fact that she actually listen to everything he told her. Meeks handed Y/n the box and when she opened it her eyes widened. She quickly closed it and shoved it back into his hands. Stephens heart stopped. “…do you not like it?” he asked quietly. “Meeksie… I mean- it’s beautiful but I can’t take this. It’s too much”, she said looking into his eyes. At that moment Meeks knew his feeling for the girl across from him were mutual and he pulled the ring from the box and slipped it in his finger just like he imagined. “Like you said it’s beautiful. Exactly like you”. Then he leaned in and just before his lips met yours he stopped. His right hand then slowly made its way to your hair tucking a piece behind your ear even slower. Next, in one quick motion, he ran his fingers deeper into your hair pulling you to meet him and he finally kissed you. It was slow and long but hard and filled with passion. He pulled away with a big smile as you tried to catch your breath. Then he rested his forehead against yours, his glasses were slightly fogged from your shared breaths. He gave you a few more pecks on your lips then one on your forehead before he turned you around and pulled your back agains his chest, wrapping his arms tightly around you and laying his head on top of yours. You two just sat there and watched the fire roar in the fireplace while the snow fell outside. Meeks then leaned down to your right ear and said“my girl” before giving a kiss to the side of your head. THE END!!

#stephen meeks #steven meeks #charlie dalton #dead poets society #gerard pitts #steven meeks fanfics #stephen meeks fanfics #stephen #stephen meeks imagine

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ginkgomoon · 3 years ago

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I Like You A Latte- Gavin ☕️

Happy blog birthday to @cheri-cheri. Another gift would like to present itself to you! 💙

“The exam is officially over,” you sigh.

All those years of studying and recurring late nights pouring the blood, sweat and tears for you push towards the finish line were all worth it.

You are now free.

Kind of… but not really.

For once, you were outside not catching the train to go university, heading off into another library or exam room. You had thought to savour this rare time to yourself before heading off to find a job. Thankfully, public transport is convenient enough to take you just about anywhere in Loveland City.

With only your phone, wallet and keys in hand, you stroll along the all too familiar building blocks near your home, pondering on where to go for the long awaited first day out by yourself. Should you go for some udon? Bingsoo? Pudding, perhaps?

While breathing in the sweet air of freedom, you admire the city that you grew up in, absorbing the view from down below and up at the infrastructure that the city was so renowned for.

The height, distance and those buildings haven't changed. But you- the stages of your life, experiences and perspectives have. The city almost seemed a little bit more… brighter. More alive. Or maybe… would it be for just this once?

This, you fear.

The glare of the sun continues beating down, its light reflecting off the glass buildings passing its judgement on the entire city. The heat is suffocating and you long for a cool drink or nice air-con to rely on to keep you sane.

A vision suddenly intrudes, presenting the clean pastel coloured store-front of the café that had just opened up nearby. You remember that you had power-walked right past the “WE ARE OPEN” sign on your way home from a past exam to prepare for the final one a few days ago.

You know you rarely enter any cafés at all, but your love for coffee and urge to explore someplace new begin to steer your legs into the walking direction of where you had remembered it to be.

As you soon reach the entrance, the sign you saw from the peripheral of your memory greets you.

“BRUNCH CAFE. WE ARE OPEN.”

You push open the heavy glass door, instantly entering a world of relief. Still in between the two opposing temperatures, you hastily swing the door back and encase yourself in paradise.

You take a moment to briefly scan your surroundings. The café, although it claims to be open, has everything but the barista. It wasn’t as big as the Starbucks down at the shopping centres, but it was humble enough for its size and able to fit all the requirements a café needs.

Soft instrumental music starts to reel you in further, like a siren hypnotising a sailor. You feel... peaceful. Though you wonder if you were hearing the non-diegetic music of the film occurring right in front of your eyes instead of your almost-dream café.

The minimalist designs, the ambience, and the extremely posh and elegant windows that you didn’t admire enough the first time strikes your appeal. You also confirm with yourself that this was the café that you would choose to break the cycle of drinking instant coffees everyday.

Just this once.

On the left side, those posh windows were flaunting on display, and to the right had little cubicles laid out perfect for providing spacious privacy. You marvel at what a genius idea the store owner had to create such a comforting and unique interior for a café. There was not a thing out of place.

Except of course, the barista.

You head over to where the cubicles were waiting and as you turn into the corner, you almost trip over something that looks like… a foot?

Following the coffee-stained sport shoes, your eyes slowly drift up on its owner, locking on a sleeping figure on the seats of the cubicle.

A young man with a soft aura.

You squint in confusion.

The poor cubicle clearly wasn’t big enough to fit his entire body. His hair seems to have fallen into place like dominos having slightly covering his eyelids, and appears to be breathing in a gentle rhythm with his chest following in sync. Your eyes also end up emphasising his jawline as you continue to stare.

His chest- wait.

A little badge on the right corner of his shirt immediately becomes the salient object.

So, he is the barista.

Barista… Gabin?

You lean closer at the words printed out on it.

No, it’s Ga-vin.

Apart from how attractive he looks, you question yourself- why is the barista sleeping during opening hours?

The man’s eyes slowly crack open, like a shell opening to display the pearl from inside, and you finally see his eyes of beautiful amber squinting back at you. Though, you can’t tell if it was because of the bright lights inside the cafe, or if he was solely observing you- and why you were so close to him at this very moment.

“Oh, I am so sorry,” you cry, instantly retracting from your forward-leaning position. Your brain tries to racks up reasons why you two were in this situation incase he asks.

“There was something on your face” or “your foot was in the way” could work. No- “sorry, I’ve never seen another human being before” sounds a lot more believable.

Gavin, the barista, furrows his eyebrows in confusion then seemingly in frustration.

Your body tenses.

It’s coming.

“No, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to fall asleep…” he sighs softly.

You do another quick scan and take that only the two of you were in the cafe now, unless there was another sleeping barista somewhere else you didn’t notice.

“If you're here for coffee, it’s on the house. An apology for what you saw just now…. Just don’t tell the boss if he’s here,” Gavin lightly coughs.

“Oh okay... Thank you. A latte please,” you say, rather not wanting to question it further. For now. But free coffee made by this gorgeous barista? How could anyone refuse this offer? All you did was stare. In that case, you would gladly do it again.

You settle your belongings on the table and catch Gavin rolling up his sleeves, putting on the display of his toned forearms. Luckily, your cubicle entrance was facing the direction of the workbench allowing yourself to watch him set up.

You start to wish for your coffee to be as hot as him.

Scalding hot.

Gavin steadily handles the jug and effortlessly pours the milk into the latte glass with the espresso already inside. Despite your sight of his expertise, he still can’t hide the subtle droopiness of his eyes and the slight furrow of his eyebrows again.

You figure it would be better if you come up to him instead so he wouldn’t have to travel the whole way to your cubicle with his current state being like this.

You gingerly make your way to his workbench while fumbling for a topic to break the awkward silence in your head.

“Is it just you working here today or…?” you ask.

“Is there another hot sleeping barista I should know about?” you continued in your head.

Gavin hands you the transparent cup accompanied by the saucer, a little spoon, a packet of sugar and a complimentary ginkgo-shaped cookie on the side.

The art displayed formed a symmetrical heart with perfect one centimetre foam to present the perfect latte.

“There’s the chef who’s actually the boss of this place but sometimes he dashes in and out. Especially when there’s no customers as of late. I have no idea where he goes, actually. Right now is no exception,” he replies, sweeping the remains of the coffee grounds into the knock box.

“And you do all the work for him? That doesn’t seem fair. Does he allow you to make your own cup of coffee at least?”

“Well, not exactly. I just work over-time till late. Plus, I think my body is practically immune to caffeine by now,” Gavin laughs.

"Me too," you comment.

As tired as he looks, he still has the energy to light up a smile, even with a stranger. His mouth forms an effortlessly handsome arc and you feel something emerging from within your heart, so subtle that you almost think that you could have mistaken yourself as the protagonist in a romance novel.

Though working overtime till late… at a brunch cafe?

You don’t question him any further. You take a whiff at the single delicate-looking plain ginkgo cookie and have a bite. This moment of peace and serenity was offering the much needed break from all that tension and pressure you were under- apart from Gavin being here, though he didn’t seem to mind your presence.

You lean forward to place your elbows on the counter and stare at the coffee in front, frowning a little at the reality of ruining the beautiful heart. You rip open the sugar and pour in half, then give it a stir with the spoon. The foam is perfectly silky and frothy, fusing with the crema like a starry galaxy.

You remind yourself that "it was okay" because this moment would forever remain in your own heart instead. Delicious, creamy arabica coffee.

Like those ginkgo leaves dancing in the wind that autumn day.

You smile at the memory before multiple begin to overlap with another. Ones where you had passed by the senior classrooms catching a glimpse of a boy staring out of the window or down in a random alleyway on your bicycle.

You didn’t think much of it back then either, but he had always looked familiar and seemed to be everywhere you were too. Crossing paths in hallways and even at the library, reading. That upperclassman boy named-

“-Gavin?”

He looks up.

“From school?”

You wonder why you hadn’t realised.

His facial features are now more defined, sharper, and still a head taller than you. Who would have thought the hot barista was actually an old schoolmate. You put your coffee down and internally scream.

“You remember me?” he softly asks.

“Just a little bit. Wait, do you know who I am?”

“Just a little bit.”

Gavin smiles.

You break eye contact and continue drinking, not wanting the coffee to get cold during this exchange. But even now it tastes different than before.

“So, what brings you here?” he asks.

“Taking a break before I find a job. See if any place will accept me…”

“Of course they will. You’re brilliant at what you do. I have no doubts that you will be successful.”

You smile in response, taking in the last of the remaining coffee.

“How do you know? We haven’t seen each other in so long. And I don’t think we’ve ever interacted this much in the past."

“I just do… Trust me.”

You look back up. His eyes light up with so much sincerity that could power a whole entire city’s electricity.

"I never thought I'd see you again," you say.

"What do you mean?"

"I don't know. You seemed like... you were just so difficult to figure out, especially for people like me who don't know you that well. So I never gave it a second thought either. And now here you are, making my coffee. Anyway, this is probably not making any sense..."

"No, I understand," Gavin states. "In your opinion... what kind of man am I?"

Before you could formulate a proper response, hot heat suddenly finds its way in, corroding with its cooler counterpart and signalling the entrance of another person.

Your eyes catch sight of a tall and handsome man, his aura so dominating that the heat you feel could just be from him instead.

“That’s the boss,” Gavin whispers.

The boss saunters his way in straight towards you two. His black hair matches his suit and tie, making him appear more like a CEO than of a chef.

“Don’t worry, I’m just going to the back to restock some things, I’ll be right back,” Gavin says, shooting you a comforting smile.

While trying to process all of this, your eyebrows are the ones to furrow now instead. How could this boss treat an employee like this? Working overtime without proper breaks? This to you was appalling and certainly see this as an act of injustice. Being the good and lawful citizen that you are, you decide to treat this like one.

“Excuse me.”

Before he enters the kitchen, he turns, offering his full attention to you. You thought you had a good grasp on what you wanted to say, but it seems that your head had disconnected from your voice box.

“Your employee…” you begin, “he seems very fatigued. I think you should be sharing the workload equally instead of leaving the cafe. Haven’t you ever heard of a collegial workplace before?”

His eyebrow lifts- in amusement, mockery or consideration, you don’t know. After all, your words carrying the “sense of justice” did sound a lot better in your head.

“I don’t interfere with anyone’s personal lives,” he said, his deep voice shattering your “prosecution”. But before you could have another go at him, he retreats into the kitchen.

Gavin returns with takeaway cups and lids and sees you standing flabbergasted at your interaction with the boss.

“You okay?”

You reply back with a little “humph” at the direction of the kitchen then turn to Gavin restocking the items on the cup warmer of the coffee machine.

"I-it’s nothing."

After all, this was your first and last time here, and maybe you shouldn't have acted so impulsively on a situation like this. Plus, how would Gavin react if you push the topic further?

You sigh. Hopefully the plan to have a drink and catch up with an old friend later in the night will settle the agitation you feel.

A soft ding is heard from your phone reminding you to get ready to leave.

Perfect timing.

As you reluctantly pack your things, you glance at Gavin’s way, who looks like he’s about to end his shift for the day as well.

You don’t want to be supporting a business owner who treats his employees like this, but yet seeing Gavin this way made you feel helpless. It’s a shame that you won’t see another handsome barista like this again. Or see him again. Or probably enter another cafe at all after this.

“I have to go.”

Your voice interrupts his workflow, and he frowns.

“Now?”

“I have somewhere to be, unfortunately.”

Gavin takes a moment to process this.

“Why don’t you wait till I leave? That way, I can see you off. It will only be a minute.”

More like a minute's time to sob about this man who could have been your boyfriend in a parallel universe. But as long as you won’t be late to meet up with your friend, you agree to wait for Gavin to finish up.

You linger by the entrance, not wanting to intrude his workspace again and steer clear from the awkwardness that could arise from watching him up close.

But after that literal minute, he steps outside with you and the heaviness in your heart starting to simmer back up again. The air already seems to have to cooled down, providing a thankful comfort to your surroundings.

Looking at him now, you almost change your mind. You could maybe see him again when you have time in the future. To... catch up.

Just maybe.

“Thank you for today," you say. You remind yourself to not get too attached, having really not know if you would be ready for all of that, especially for what was to come in the future.

You slowly walk backwards into the direction of your home, back where you need to get ready for the night out again.

“Thanks for coming. It was nice meeting you again,” he replies.

As you turn to leave, in your peripheral vision Gavin tracks forward to cover every step you took away from him, pulling a hesitant arm up to say something more.

But by then, you were already turning the corner and out of sight.

-And after all this time, your thoughts keep returning to those moments.

A couple of hours pass and your mind still orbits Gavin and that café. You wonder if there was something more you could have done or said. Hopefully he didn’t mistake your hurried steps for something else.

You soon arrive at the venue that you and your friend unanimously agreed on, though as you tippy-toe your way through the crowd to spot her, it seems that she hasn't arrived at the agreed time yet.

As you wait, you fiddle with the side of your dress. You decided to go with the classy minimalist look- a black dress and simple ginkgo drop earrings you bought recently. You didn't want to draw any attention to yourself, but you were satisfied that you were well-dressed enough to feel glamorous for the night. However, wanting to avoid the additional heat of the weather sticking on your body like a tattoo, you decide to head in first.

The music gradually becomes clearer and definitely louder as you weave your way through the hallway entrance towards the heart of the club, with the lights dimly lit and its walls enclosed for the darkness to rule.

You haven’t been in a place like this for so long, especially when you got used to the quiet and calm environment of libraries, the home, and the café earlier…

You could feel everyone’s body heat from a good healthy distance away, even at the seat of the bar. You don’t plan on getting drunk tonight, but you know your alcohol tolerance is so low that you figure it would be best if you should order a little fruity mocktail first instead then perhaps have a real drink with your friend when she arrives later.

You give a quick text notifying her of your location and place your phone back into your purse, ready to order.

Darkness continues to stir as you struggle to locate the bartender.

What kind of bartender is this person if they’re not at the bar?

Lights rotate and blind its way in every direction. For a fleeting second, it lands on the person across from you, illuminating those unforgettable eyes and smile of its owner.

His eyes are just as wide as yours.

"It's you."

The barista- no, bartender, was Gavin.

#I had so much fun with this one #happy birthday Cheri #I CANT WAIT FOR YOU TO READ THIS SIDISJSJS #3k words!!#THIS WAS THE SPECIAL POST I WAS TALKING ABOUT #mlqc #mr love queens choice #love and producer #恋与制作人 #gavin #mlqc gavin #mlqc fanfic #Gavin week

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ribbonetteart · 4 years ago

Photo

I redesigned Rouge!

A LOT of notes about her redesign below:

Again, much like the Cream redesign, I’d like to start with the disclaimer that I don’t hate Rouge’s current design! I think her current look is cute but I did take some issue with it here and there, and here was the checklist I had in mind when redesigning her:

Put some red on her! Her name is ROUGE

Ditch the jumpsuit. I get the impression that the “sexier” aspects of Rouge make her appear older than she is, so I wanted to try making her look more like she’s 18.

Wing arms!!! There’s nothing wrong with putting the wings on her back but I wanted to emphasize her being a bat.

Give her a new alt outfit. In Sonic Heroes, Rouge got a new outfit that was quickly retired. I wanted to give her a debut outfit and a new outfit that would stick around.

Switch out the heart motif for a diamond motif. I think the heart motif is cute! But I think making diamonds Rouge’s thing is more fitting since she loves jewels more than anything.

Rouge’s Body

The 1st reference sheet is Rouge’s bare body. She’s still got white fur, but her body is gray. I actually came to the decision to give her gray body fur last-minute; I wanted to give her a white belt in her 2nd outfit, but her white midriff made the 2 things blend and I needed some contrast. I drew (ba-dum-tssh) lots of inspiration from Honduran white bats, and thus I gave her a little bat nose and smoky colored wings (I actually wanted a more gray-ish purple wing color, but my scanner gave me this gray instead. the gray-purple is more noticeable in the other reference sheet though).

I gave her a furry body because I thought it was weird that other Sonic character’s bodies had fur and Rouge was just all skin, save for her head. She has chest fur now because I thought it made her look more like a bat and because I’m not that comfortable with an 18 year old baring visible cleavage all the time, so this hit 2 birds with one stone. I kept her arms and legs furless, again, to make her look more like a Honduran white bat. I also wanted some more body diversity within the sonic cast, so I gave Rouge a plumper body and wider legs since she usually uses her legs in combat.

I wanted to keep her skin tone similar to the one she has in Sonic Adventure 2, but I ditched the eye color. I really wanted to put some red on her somewhere since her name is Rouge, and making it her eye color means that she has red on her all the time, so I thought it was perfect. On one final note regarding her body, she’s got visible nails now! Her old, beta name before it was “Rouge” was “Nails”, and I imagine she uses her nails for digging or combat so I made them more prominent.

Rouge’s Clothes

“That Government Spy Rouge the Bat”: SA2 G.U.N. Agent Rouge

Her 1st outfit would be her outfit in her debut appearance while she’s an agent for G.U.N. I still wanted her outfit to look trendy without looking too much like a uniform as she is supposed to be an undercover agent in SA2. The decision to use a blue analogous palette was to make it look even more like a police uniform.

Her gloves are short, half gloves. With arms on her wings, obviously her opera gloves weren’t gonna fit comfortably. The cropped gloves fit more comfortably on her hands without bothering her wings.

Rouge’s uniform is a sleeveless turtleneck and a “skort”, or, shorts with a skirt on it. The skirt flap has a pocket where she stores anything that won’t fit on her utility belt.

She’s also got piercings now! I think they suit her for someone who’s obsessed with jewels.

Her boots aren’t flashy, but they’re a chunky heel with metal soles to pack a harder wallop in her kicks.

Fly in the Freedom: Post SA2 Rouge

With this design comes with a bit of a rewrite. Rouge no longer works under G.U.N., free-lancing or not. After the events of SA2, she’s quit and gone on to do her own thing (however she’s still a grade A thief).

Overall, her new post SA2 look is rather asymmetrical compared to her more uniform look in the 1st design. I thought the asymmetry would convey her new rebellious, independent status and contrast more with the uniform she sported prior to when she took order from G.U.N.

I wanted this design to look more cohesive with team dark. Her Sonic Heroes outfit made her stick out from the other team members as she had a more purple and pink color palette compared to Shadow and Omega’s red, black, and gold. For her palette, I wanted to incorporate more of those colors to really make her look like the leader of Team Dark. The reds are mostly located on her diamond motifs, and the gold on her is on any metal she’s adorning.

Her outfit includes a cropped leather jacket, dark purple-ish black form fitting pants, white knee high boots, and white leather utility belt and cropped fingerless gloves. Since she no longer has a skirt flap or pocket to store extra items, I gave a her a little fanny pack at the back of her belt. I gave her a cropped jacket to make her look a little more rebellious, seeing as her teammates are rebels of their own. The leader of an edgy team has gotta look edgy herself, I figured! The dark make up is also to help with her new, bold and edgy look.I also wanted to show off Rouge’s chest fur and the deep V neck of the jacket does that well!

I thought Rouge’s heart boots were cute, but since I’m replacing her heart motif with diamonds, I wanted to adjust it to fit the diamond motif. She’s now got diamonds at the toe of her boots as well as the sole. I made them wedge heels because I imagine they’re easier to run in.

Inventory

On her utility belt, she’s got a flip phone: good for quick contact and disposal. She also has a few pouches, probably to hold smoke bombs or something. I also wanted her to keep her treasure scope from SA2, so it’s also got a place on her belt.

Other inventory items include her compact, perfect for touching up her make up or finding pesky lasers (which is a spy trope I think? It’s probably not scientifically sound but whatever it helps her find lasers).

And of course, Rouge’s bat bomb! It functions much the same as Rouge’s bombs have throughout the series (Sonic Battle, Sonic 06, Sonic Forces: Speed Battle), I just adjusted its appearance to reflect this redesign.

I also decided while I was at it to take the guns away from Shadow and give them to Rouge; I don’t see why the ultimate life form needs a fire arm when he can shoot powerful concentrated beams of energy from his hands while the secret agent (who is more likely to be equipped with that kind of weapon) would be without it. She has her pea shooter on her leg holster concealed by her boots (Which is why I tried making her boots a bit bigger than her legs as opposed to being tight fitting).

Hair

Finally, Rouge has got some new hairstyles! For her SA2 look, I wanted to keep the trademark Yuji Uekawa spiky hair he tends to draw on his sonic characters, but I definitely wanted to change her hairstyle; I just personally wasn’t a fan of her current style. I wanted something that looked mature and chic, so I gave her a layered bob. It’s also symmetrical to fit the uniform look she’s wearing.

And Rouge gets another haircut for her post SA2 look! It’s much wavier, and she’s got bangs now. For this style, I was inspired by 1. the Finger Waves hairstyle, 2. those little curlicues that agent Honeydew has from Dexter’s Laboratory, and 3. Marilyn Monroe’s curly hair. I wanted to add some elegance to Rouge’s look and I think the curly hair really brings that aspect of her character out.

If you’ve made it to the end of all of this then like holy crap thank you so much for reading all of this and I love you

#Rouge the bat #sonic the hedgehog #sonic redesign #sonic adventure 2 #team dark #character design #my art

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667-darkavenue · 6 years ago

Text

shadow image

inspired by a couple of the headcanons from this post by @crowleyandaziraphaleruinedme

Agra, 1659. Locked in a tower, a fallen king gazes through the bars of his exquisite prison. No other captive would have the luxury of being held at the top of a marble palace, surrounded by a sprawling view of the capital city. Sometimes, he is allowed to sit on the veranda for fresh air. His daughter comes to see him most days, which helps with the loneliness. Most evenings, the family tutor is allowed to visit. He brings Shah Jahan new books to read. They discuss the Quran and pray together.

The fallen king always liked Aziraphale. He’d been there before the death of the queen and he’d stuck with Shah Jahan after, always reassuring. Even when the world doubted his sanity for dedicating his life to what seemed like a wasteful pipe dream that would come at a colossal price, Aziraphale understood and encouraged. Perhaps, a little too much.

“A clear view of her tomb from my prison, all day and all night.” Shah Jahan frowns at the Taj Mahal gleaming beneath the moonlight. “As far as torture goes, at least the pain is sweet.”

Aziraphale finishes slipping the last of the books he brought through a gap in the bars. “I’ve invited someone to come see it, actually. I’m afraid that’s why I cannot stay tonight.”

The fallen king is unperturbed. “Tell your friend about the lost dream.”

Reluctantly, Aziraphale nods. “Not a friend, but I’ll do that.”

At the correction, Shah Jahan gives a wistful smile, which means he has now misinterpreted what Aziraphale meant even more deeply than at first.

He waits on the edge of the bazaar that night, expecting that he will be the one spotted first. Aziraphale’s appearance doesn’t change much over time, but he is never sure what to look for when it comes to a certain demon.

“Hey, a guard just told me it’s closed at night,” a familiar voice complains at Aziraphale’s side.

He did predict that Crowley would be draped in black, but the veil is a surprise. It’s of the same material as the dark, diaphanous sari Crowley wears across a full sleeved, black velvet top.

“Well, hello. It’s alright, they know I’m working with the royal family.”

“Oh, you’re fancy.”

On their stroll to the great gate, Aziraphale fills Crowley in on the past decade’s local gossip. The king and queen’s epic love, most unusual for a political marriage.

“That’s what brought you here, is it?”

“Oh, no. It took me quite by surprise. It is the reason I stayed, I admit. There’s something remarkable here.”

“There was. And now we’re standing at the gates to her tomb.” Crowley tilts his head back to get a good look at the great gate, a massive red monument that blocks the view of the Taj Mahal behind it.

An inscription in the marble catches his eye.

“O soul, thou art at rest. Return to the Lord at peace with Him, and He at peace with you,” he reads aloud, then turns to Aziraphale with a smirk and a raised eyebrow. “You sure I’m allowed in here, then?”

“It’s somewhat an artistic statement. This gate is supposed to represent a transition from the material world,” Aziraphale vaguely waves a hand in the direction of the bazaar outside, “to the afterlife.”

There’s an interesting little optical illusion that he pauses to point out to Crowley. The first view of the resplendent Taj Mahal is framed by elegant arch of the main gate. Standing in the shadows of the gate, the moon-white monument looks like a picture perfectly framed in black. As they step closer, the Taj seems to grow smaller. Even Crowley, who isn’t typically fazed by tricks, finds himself walking back to the entrance to do a double take. It seems to grow bigger as he walks backwards, away from the Taj.

“How are you doing this?”

“It isn’t me!” Aziraphale gleefully insists. “I pitched in some ideas—call it divine inspiration—but they’re so brilliant here, they figured out how to make it real all on their own.”

Crowley walks through the gate again, taking the illusion in once more. “It is a little brilliant, I’ll give ‘em that. Like a human miracle.”

“And you’re only at the entrance. Just wait.” Aziraphale barely restrains himself from skipping as he leads the way through the lush garden beyond the gate.

He chatters on about how the garden is a representation of Jannah and the water channels along the two paths symbolise the four rivers that flow through it.

“Doesn’t look anything like it, but I suppose it’s a rough interpretation.”

“It’s a symbol, Crowley.”

“I’m not hating. I like this better, even.”

“Really?”

“Really.”

More up close to the Taj now, Aziraphale can see Crowley becoming spellbound. Beneath the veil, his eyes drink up the synthesis of grace and scale as if it could quench his soul. It is a masterpiece of a kind this world hasn’t seen before. Aziraphale shows him the splendid interior, all the way into the inner sanctum that holds the queen’s final resting place. He explains how everything from the foundation to the dome is a feat of engineering. He shares the other illusions he knows the building holds and finds that this magic on a monumental scope is actually quite fascinating to Crowley.

Then, the pair row a boat to the moonlight garden across the river, designed for a perfect view of the full structure. The full moon shines above, the breeze is balmy all around, and the water laps quietly at the riverbank beneath the garden. The Taj Mahal looms directly across from them, a tangible love song that invites anyone in the world to physically walk through its verses.

“I like this,” Crowley admits. “Hamlet exceeded expectations, too.”

“Oh, you liked it?” Aziraphale attempts to sound pleasantly surprised, but it comes off as pleasantly smug.

“Yeah, yeah. So, what did you need here? Consider me sold” He turns his attention to Aziraphale, ready to talk business.

They normally get that out of the way before the fun stuff, but Crowley has no complaints about the change of pace.

Aziraphale’s mouth flaps silently a couple of times before his tongue starts fumbling a response. “Er—I—Well, it’s… Nothing.”

“Oh, spit it out.”

“I don’t need a favor.”

“Sure, you don’t. You told me to come all this way for what? Just to hang out?”

“What’s that tone for?” Offended, Aziraphale splays a hand over his own chest. “We’ve ‘just hung out’ before.”

“Yeah, when we bump into each other.” Crowley throws his hands up only to let them fall back at his side, in an impatient gesture that clinks the silver bangles around his wrists. “I was on a different continent, Aziraphale.”

Aziraphale takes a deep inhale. Crowley waits for a sigh that never comes. He just holds it in.

“You miss me?” Crowley prods, eyes gleaming behind the veil.

He looks away. “I asked you to come here because I wanted to know if it was just me.”

“Just you what?”

“This place… The humans poured their hearts and souls into making an earthly representation of heaven. But the thing is—I never saw anything this sublime in heaven. Not even close.” He gazes up and down the radiant marble mausoleum on the opposite bank. “This isn’t made of the cosmos, or the divine. It’s only stone on stone. And it beats heaven.”

Such things, he could never say aloud to the devout king that he prays with. He could never admit to his own kind. He has nothing to lose from sharing it with Crowley.

“It isn’t just you,” Crowley concedes with ease. “They didn’t snap their fingers and miracle it into existence. And still, they made a wonder. That’s pretty amazing. How many people worked on this, and for how long?”

“Too many for too long,” Aziraphale mumbles, casting his eyes down. “Shah Jahan became obsessed. He practically ran the empire into the ground to build it.”

“Classic aftermath of hubris.”

“I think I caused it. I pushed it too far, Crowley.” Aziraphale chews his lip, face wracked with guilt.

Helplessly confessing mistakes to this demon has somehow become a troubling habit. It would be easier to break if Crowley didn’t choose these moments to suddenly become a patient listener.

“I was so set on this idea of this… of an ageless message of pure love, unaffected by time or war—or by the rise and fall of empires. I… I kept suggesting more. It spiralled out of hand and so many people suffered for the emperor’s devotion.”

“But, Aziraphale, I saw you in there. You love it. You’re brimming with delight in there.”

“I can’t help it,” his voice comes dangerously close to being described as a whine, “Ever since its completion, it has this—this effect. I’ve never felt anything like it. It’s so enveloping, so enormous, that I can feel it from here. I can feel it in the streets. Even in the farthest corners of the city, I’m unsuspectingly pricked by traces of it.”

“What is ‘it?’”

“Oh. It’s love.”

Crowley furrows his brow, not sensing any of what’s obvious to the angel. “The old emperor’s love?”

“No, everyone’s love. The people who come here each day and see this, they leave with the notion of love in their hearts. So much of it that it pours a trail wherever they go. And it is so concentrated, right here.”

“Job well done for you, then. Jot that on your report and they’ll eat it up.”

“Of course, they will. I just—The dark side is still there, even if I don’t tell anyone.”

“You told me. Blame it on me, over here trying to spoil a good thing.”

“Shah Jahan has the best intentions. I mean, he was named king of the world and he wants his legacy to be his great love. All this, and he never even had the chance to complete his life’s work,” Aziraphale laments. “He was deposed and imprisoned by his own family, to save the empire from the extravagance of his grief.”

“He never—You mean this isn’t done?” Crowley blinks incredulously across the river, unable to fathom what could possibly be missing from the Taj.

Aziraphale shake’s his head. “Everything in its design is symmetrical. This garden, where we’re standing… This is where he planned to build another identical mausoleum, hewn from black marble, where he would be entombed directly across from his love. The black Taj would be a mirror image of the white Taj, down to the very last speck.”

“Ah.” Crowley gives a curt nod the moment the understanding hits. “If he brought the empire to the edge of ruin to finish the white one, I see how that idea could be the last straw for his family.”

Aziraphale nods back solemnly. “They aren’t wrong. Now, I wonder where he would be if I’d never suggested it.”

“I still think it was a good idea,” Crowley says with a shrug.

For a wordless minute, they gaze at the flawless, glowing Taj on the opposite bank. Alone.

Crowley’s the one to break the silence. “I could make a Black Taj.”

“Don’t be ridiculous.” Aziraphale clicks his tongue. “That’s an enormous miracle. You couldn’t explain yourself when they question what it’s for.”

“Nah, it’s not.” Crowley brings his hand up to his forehead, then slowly down.

It looks as though he is beginning to do the sign of the cross, except that his hand never moves to either side. It continues down in a straight line.

“What are you doing?” Aziraphale looks over his shoulder, fearfully expecting to see a black monument rising.

“Other way, angel.”

Aziraphale’s face whips around to the white Taj, thankfully unchanged across the river. The full moon above it is sinking low, real low, and impossibly fast. Crowley pulls the moon down across the sky until it dips behind the Taj Mahal, framing the immaculate marble in its glow.

“Do you see it?” he asks.

At first, Aziraphale doesn’t see anything at all. Not until he looks at Crowley’s face and sees that his golden eyes are pointed downwards. Aziraphale follows his line of sight to the river running beneath them. He sees the Taj Mahal’s reflection in the wine-dark waters of the Yamuna, and his lips part in awe. The halo of moonlight around it creates a wavy shadow image of a black Taj Mahal.

Aziraphale turns his gaze to the fort in the distance, where he knows the fallen king spends his nights gazing at the Taj from his tower, and hopes that he is witnessing this miracle.

“It’s even better than we could’ve imagined,” he tells Crowley. “It’s magical.”

Crowley hums, making an effort not to look too pleased with Aziraphale’s delight. “I don’t move celestial bodies for anyone, you know.”

#good omens #ineffable husbands #crowley #aziraphale

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howtotalktoagirlonfacebook · 4 years ago

Text

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As well as I make sure you have actually listened to the majority of them before stand up straight and tall point your feet in the direction of the girl you have an interest in as well as square your shoulders. These are conventional alpha male body movement strategies that everyone understands. However right here's what you might not know after you have actually revealed that you're solid as well as confident using your body language as well as have actually acquired her passion.

Attempt this masterful alpha method to truly establish the hook it's called the pull as well as press. It's kind of like a trickery except for the last minute fraud, yet it's the excellent type of secret method that the sexiest of hot males make use of to gain control of any kind of flirtatious scenario. Right here's how it works. So you're talking with a woman that you simply met and also you're both nervous as well as there's a lots of stress after a couple of conversational exchanges.

Strike her with a spirited compliment, or if you're really feeling actually certain and endure, a scheming sex-related innuendo, attractive teasing is complicated, but not constantly off restrictions, if you can implement it well, which implies happily in the ideal setting. As well as without coming off as weird, if you're not confident making use of sex-related innuendo, maintain it PG 13 with a lively compliment.

And afterwards. Here's the critical component. Simply go down the mic and also walk away. Now here's the other extremely essential item to executing this flawlessly. You have to casually walk away to a location where she can adhere to, since the main goal is to get her to follow you. And currently you have her chasing you as opposed to vice versa.

So don't walk away to the men's restroom or to your intimidating group of person buddies rather had somewhere neutral, like the bar counter or an alcoholic drink table and also remain approachable. The technique is to leave her. Somewhat puzzled, but with the door wide open so she can conveniently approach you. Number 4 outfit to thrill and spark conversation.

No trick scenario is that she doesn't follow your Lea right away, guys. That's flawlessly okay. Because the alternate outcome is that she's returning to her. Good friend's a little confused and also entertained by your habits. While you maintain on your own close by open readily available and also very friendly. She's going to rate laughing back to her good friends with exhilaration concerning the mystical guy that sort of hit on me.

Then just walked away. O M G I'm so baffled right now. And her close friends are gon na ask, Oh, mg, what person? As well as she's going to claim that individual right over there putting on the that's why this next component is so indisputably vital. The following words out of her mouth should not be. This type of homeless looking man over there and also the hooded sweatshirt.

Instead, you desire her to be able to define you in a more favorable light, and that's why dressing well is a no brainer. As well as if you go to all interested regarding just how to look a lot more appealing by clothing, well, you reached start on the ideal foot as well as you can do that with today's sponsor Thursday boots. You've all heard us state it in the past, yet women always check out it individuals footwear, right?

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Number three, be the casual alpha. Possibly you're not just asking on your own, exactly how can I look extra attractive rather? Maybe you're asking yourself, how can I look extra Jak poderwac dziewczyne przez messengera eye-catching than every person else, men, this is just one of the age old methods to obtain women to chase you. And also it will definitely assist you maximize your appearance as well as one of the most effective method that admittedly takes.

Some method to master is the casual. Alpha, the nonchalant alpha man does all points alpha. He's a ruthless Dewar kind of a go getter. He's confident. As well as most importantly, he couldn't offer to ShipWorks about what other people think of it and fellows that's the key. Yes, you have to function faithfully to be your most appealing self, but trying also hard is shateringly apparent as well as comes off as being hopeless as well as clingy.

Being chronically uncaring is so efficient at making women nuts concerning you for a difficult mess of reasons. But the major factor is that everyone wants what they can't have, and everyone is mystically fascinated by that, which they can't manage and fellas, that's why being a bad-ass loose could not care.

Less alpha male is so damn irresistible. Oh, you know, what else is irresistible key, manly expertise, proven to obtain women to stress over you, yet the most detailed old Sanskrit degree wisdom regarding the artist's deductions completely worthless. If you do not recognize the main factors women believe you desire attractive, yet Hey, do not flip out due to the fact that I'm going to share a few of that valuable details with you at the end of the video clip.

So hang tough up until the end to figure out exactly what the majority of guys are doing to transform 99.9% of women away. Second, obtain her done. Of all the extremely practical pointers for males to look eye-catching. This one is probably one of the most possible. When we think of attractive guys, we believe tall, good-looking, physically fit, symmetrical face functions as well as stuff like that.

As well as while it's all real, the art of tourist attraction goes well past those standards. One of things that alpha individuals do that females can not stand up to is that they seem to be really effective day. Get shit done day in day out. And here's why women find this so appealing having the ability to handle a job or an obstacle and persist shows that you understand how to take advantage of your possessions, to achieve an objective, an irrefutable sign of leadership, to squash your ability to remain focused, to obtain her done as a sheriff fireplace.

Trigger you prospective to be not only a successful individual, however a successful partner as well. And that fella's is how you make a woman promptly. Like you. Leading, prioritize your interest. The very best of all the ideas to look a lot more attractive has nothing to do with any individual but on your own. As well as due to that, you remain in complete control of this one.

All cooled Camille wants roadway without passion, male is a plain unrealized force and also possibility without your interest, you're simply an intricate biological meat puppet, but with your passion for something nature and the outdoors, a sport, a price, whatever it is. You immediately end up being bigger than on your own.

And that is something you're squashed will not be able to disregard something. 99.9% of ladies find resistible. It's what makes you one-of-a-kind and establishes you in addition to the remainder? So if you're unsure what your passion is, or if you've simply been disregarding it recently, see to it you get it back on the front burner and also make it a priority today.

Do not bury on your own. Academic studies of destination are numerous and the extent is extremely wide, yet there is one item of common ground that scientists continually find concerning the legislation of attraction. And that is that also in the 21st century of online dating and also social media folks often tend to come to be brought in to those they're around and interact with routinely.

Like classmates colleagues or colleagues one huge and all too typical blunder alpha men often make is to cut themselves off from opportunity while they're out there in the world, kicking ass and also taking names much lesser guys are scooping up the single women simply because they're present in quest of their passion and obtain shit done.

This, they neglect to require time off to put themselves out there, which leads us to our last verdict. The fastest way to drive females away is to be chronically preoccupied with your daily grind and ultimately inaccessible. So bear in mind. Quit working so hard periodically, it is very important to pause and put on your own out there to develop an opportunity for your crush to notice you.

Or if you don't have a crush after that to go find one in the first place, gents, today, we're revealing you 12, purely instinctive, absolutely subconscious indications that a woman likes you by this point. You recognize, it's not always easy to understand if a lady is actually interested. Is she playing games or is it genuine?

What could be chemistry field flirtation for one lady? May only be standard run of the mill kindness for an additional. Which's why today we're showing you 12 subconscious indications of tourist attraction and also the one shateringly obvious indicator that a girl is most definitely not brought in to you. Number 12, she breaks from her besties.

Hey, have you ever before saw exactly how girls constantly start the night out by only dancing with each other? The reason for that is due to the fact that they feel most comfy with their closest friends. Which in many cases is other girls, yet it's a legislation of nature. A girl in her team are hard to divide. Not just are they usually friends, yet they likewise act as kind of bodyguards for each other by keeping away any type of undesirable attention.

So what are we getting at women stick together at the very least semi unconsciously out of a feeling of safety and security. And also what that suggests is that if a lady you're talking with separate herself from her squad to socialize with you alone, you far better think she's interested due to the fact that not just is she leaving the enjoyable crew that she was available in with, she's also revealing her buddies that she recognizes she remains in excellent hands with you.

And also they don't have to worry. Number 11, the following in the huge, large bulk of instances, body movement, isn't only non-verbal, it's additionally mainly non-conscious. As well as most of the moment it informs you every little thing you need to know. So, what should you try to find first? One of the greatest, many fundamental body language giveaways, when it involves tourist attraction is to merely lean or fall in towards the other individual.

Think about it. The women fall in to obtain closer to men. They do not such as possibly not. To make sure that indicates if she's literally leaning in your direction, even if it's from a considerable range. She's probably feeling your ambiance. Number 10, answer seeking. Right here's something to remember the following time you speak with a woman prior to you obtain a possibility to state anything, that girl has actually instantly unconsciously developed a story about you in her mind.

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However the only thing exists are unavoidably some components on the story that are missing out on. Now, if she doesn't appreciate the missing out on parts, she'll carry on and will not seem fascinating. Yet if she's interested. The only point entrusted to do is to obtain some of those inquiries responded to. So if you're speaking with a girl as well as she keeps looking for out more regarding you, that's virtually most definitely due to the fact that she's allow her interest lug her away towards view number 9, face exploration, as you recognize, well, over fifty percent of communication is entirely non-verbal as well as ground zero for that quiet and also subconscious communication is what takes place through facial expression.

Just like a woman will certainly constantly find a way to obtain her inquiries answered regarding you. She'll also be exploring your face to discover as high as she can. And the reason is easy. While your words claim one thing, your facial expressions speak on a different degree. And in a lot of cases, a more honest one. So if she appears focused on your eyes and mouth and also your nose as well as cheeks, it's not since she's attempting to make you stress over nose hairs or that area is cutting today.

It's simply her naturally attempting to discover your quirks. You understand, the little things she actually likes about you as well as how you truly feel. Number 8, she's a soft group. Here's a real age, old examination of subconscious destination. Next time you're with a lady, claim something, you know, is in fact sort of stupid, not clearly stupid, but just a little, you recognize, low initiative.

If she giggles immediately, you recognize, she enjoys you, you may've noticed this with other individuals, a woman laughing as well as smiling at a person that actually hasn't stated anything. All that amusing. Well, right here's the thing regarding making a lady laugh. A lot of the moment, what you claim does not even require to be unbelievably amusing or perhaps that original, since 9 times out of 10, below's, what's truly occurring behind the scenes.

When a girl laughs at something you claim it's usually driven by the truth that she's enduring purposely strengthening the tourist attraction. That's currently there. Basically. She currently suches as, you intends to make fun of right stuff you claim to see to it she remains to like you. No, as with everything in life, there are exemptions to the policy, yet if she's simple to get a laugh out of, that's commonly good information.

Number 7, stoke matching. Almost the only point far better than speaking with a woman you like is to talk to a lady that's equally excited to speak to you in the dating video game. That's, what's known as chemistry and all chemistry begins and also upright an entirely subconscious level. So exactly how can you tell if a girl is thrilled to chat?

Well, there are a couple of means. If you message, she texts back rather swiftly. If you see each other in public, she does not wait to find up as well as say hi, and if you approach her, she makes a few adjustments to her position, her hair, or her clothing. Exhilaration takes lots of types, gents. However if you pick up that she's eager to speak or amazed by your attention, that's what you want to see.

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Number 6 sensory override touch is among those things that's driven by a pretty primal part of the brain before we ever before also talk. We learn how to communicate with get in touch with first and not just do people require to be touched, they likewise need to touch so much. So actually, That when our restraints are overwritten by something like claim solid destination, we'll touch without also thinking of it.

Now as a whole, our culture has a tendency to be rather touchy about touch and for good reason, due to the fact that also for ladies relatively innocent touching can be high-risk. Generally, girls are on high alert and also totally mindful about how they literally involve with others. All to say that if a woman is touching you, it's because her natural need to get closer is outweighing a rather engaging need to be careful.

Hey people, if you like my knowledge, keep watching because we have actually obtained 5 more signals that a lady unconsciously likes you. As well as at the end of this video clip, we're going to show you one extremely misinterpreted signal. That individuals generally miss out on. All right, allow's start. Number 5. Conceal off for the same reasons why women might hold back on touching a person.

They such as, she may also maintain her faces from handing out her tourist attraction. Generally women camouflage their interest by sort of squashing out their expressions, straight lips, neutral eyebrow line, marginal movement all around, you understand it, when you see it. And also it becomes part of the reason why. Some women get the online reputation of being a little cold.

In some cases it's simply how it is. So what does that mean for you? It implies that if a lady is smiling, raising her eyebrows, making eye get in touch with, and essentially lifting up her facial expressions with the timeless signs of overlooked passions. It's due to the fact that she's determined that you're a hero. She can rely on sufficient to let her safeguard down.

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Number 4, the auto look. All right currently. This one's a classic while repeated as well as extended eye contact is clearly an excellent thing. There's one other, widely known absolutely subconscious free gift that a woman sent to you modify is the laugh and appearance or what we such as to call the vehicle appearance. Right here's exactly how it works.

The next time you're in a group of the woman. See if you can find where she looks, when something amusing takes place, if it's you who she's checking out, that's her naturally choosing you to share that enjoyable moment with this is a body movement sensation. That's quite well-documented by psychologists. People in a group,

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youarejesting · 5 years ago

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Femme: 17 (TXT Special)

[MASTERLIST]

Summary: The year is now 3019. Women’s population was plummeting. Femme Industries providing cryogenically frozen females. Masc Industries providing the chance for male pregnancy. A group of Five young men are told their compatible group is too small to be eligible for a Femme. They are however eligible for the new Femme Bot. Funny she looks just like a real human.

Pairing: BTS x Reader,

Starring: TXT, Bigbang, GOT7, BlackPink, NCT127 and Twice are going to be introduced and explored fully in later chapters. Rating: Fluff so far

Warnings: none

Length: 1.5k words

Soobin was wrestling Beomgyu for the remote when there was a knock, running to the door they all piled around as it opened to see their mysterious visitor. It was a very handsome Hyung. He was tall with broad shoulders, a perfectly symmetrical face and a great smile. The boys were all speechless waiting for one of the others to introduce them, but no one seemed to recognize him all equally shocked by his angelic presence.

Each of the boys shuffled trying to straighten up their clothing and patting down their ruffled hair, feeling rather under dressed. Just as Yeonjun was about to tell this god like young man that he had obviously gone to the wrong house, he dipped his head in greeting. "Hello, we had some left overs and were wondering if you boys would like them? I'm Kim Seokjin, from next door"

They all bowed and greeted him, when another tall figure came over. Another Hyung he was so cool looking, the boys eyes were practically sparkling. Each dreaming to be just as cool, manly and handsome as these two were. "Hello, I'm Kim Namjoon, we have so many left overs and side dishes, you should grab some containers and come over. We made a lot of Kimchi so it would really help us if you could take some"

The boys grinned, grabbing a small container and Jin laughed, telling them to grab a couple each and as big as they could. Grabbing some more containers each boy filed out, on after the other. They met the rest of the seven and blushed bowing in greeting introducing themselves. Each Hyung was very attractive and made the young five from next door feel welcome. They helped put the food away in containers.

"Here take this" the shortest of the Hyung's said, he was elegant and acted like they were related to him. They liked him he was very talkative and caring. “I made it at my bakery, it is a sweet bread, you can call me Jimin or hyung if you would like"

"You boys are in school still?" Namjoon asked packing Kimchi with his gloves and apron crinkling every time he moved around. "If you need anything we can help with your studies"

"Yes we are in our final years of high school" Taehyun who was scooping Gamja Jorim into a dish. The five young boys idolized their neighboring Hyung's greatly, they always came home to little bags hanging on their door hand with snacks and medicine and things when they needed it. Whilst studying for their English exam with Namjoon they spotted a pamphlet on the desk.

"Are you getting a Femme, Hyung?" Kai asked tapping playing with the strings of his green hoodie. Namjoon looked up shocked and then saw the pamphlet and laughed lifting it, handing it over to the curious boys. Who huddled around and read the information carefully looking at the pictures and the dot pointed information.

"We just called and visited the facility last week, it was a little nerve racking they gave us a little information package to take home. We had to fill out these questionnaires about our interests and preferences and they will put them all together and find a girl that will suit us all" Namjoon sighed "I am worried about whether we are too many, we matched as compatible males for the Femme project around the same age range but seven for one person to love it seems like a lot to ask. It won't be easy"

"She will love you Hyung's, you are all so handsome and cool and nice" There was a knock on the door and they heard yelling from inside the apartment, the door opened to reveal Hoseok. Told them all to head to the Lounge room and the younger boys took the floor as the put the chip into the computer. “What’s going on?”

"The company got back to us we got a video of our Femme" Taehyung grinned pressing play on the remote and everyone fell silent. The video was talking about all the procedures and such. When the writing on the screen depicted a Femme number. They had found a match and this was her video. It was a room with an interviewer sitting in a chair looking through a stack of files and a spare chair across from him.

That's when she came on screen Kai blushed she was so cute, the interviewer stood up and shook her hand dwarfing hers in comparison. He sat and gestured to the stool across the desk. She walked over and struggled to climb onto the stool it was quiet tall. She giggled and sat her little legs swinging triumphantly "good morning, Y/N is it?"

"Cute" Hoseok called from behind the young boys on the floor. They watched as she began talking about her life telling stories things she liked. She was asked what her ideal partner would be, she replied with a large range of traits that seemed to cover each of the boy’s personalities rather well. The interviewer asked her to send a message out to a potential partner who might be watching and she looked into the camera her eyes big and bright.

"Hello, I look forward to meeting all of you and don't leave me on ice too long I am cold, let’s make some memories together" Yeonjun turned to see the hyung's all had stars in their eyes watching her speak, he giggled and tapped the other who quickly glanced at the boys with a quiet snicker. The next video was an example day of her life, they grinned and saw her wake up and turn to the camera.

"Good morning, to my future partner, what shall we do today" she spoke to the camera tired, and went about the lab getting tests, she visited her family and was working out in the gym at the Femme center. She was driving the camera on her face on the dashboard so her hands were free, "I have to pick up my new glasses, and I think they are going to look cute.”

"Do I look cute?" She spun around and made cute poses and wiggles. They all giggled and she blushed realizing she was dancing and talking to a camera in public "I love sweets so much, but I can't have it, because I am going to be frozen this week I have been drinking protein shakes, I'm a little nervous, my biggest concern is what if he doesn't like me, well they could identify differently so I will use they, wait what if I have more than one partner, that's exciting"

She traveled home and it was her lying in bed, it was dark but she was whispering "In a few days I will be put to sleep waiting to meet whoever I am destined to be with, but hopefully it will feel like mere seconds, Goodnight"

"We should head home" Yeonjun said as the video stopped Kai yawned his head on Yeonjun’s broad shoulder. They all scrambled to their feet slowly and grabbed their homework bags and left with a friendly wave. "Sorry for bothering you Hyung's"

"No it's okay we are just so excited she is cute, they said it will take a week to transport her over here" Namjoon read the letter that came with the video. Jungkook walked them to the door patting them all on the back as the past. A week later the boys all dressed in nice button ups and pants walked to the elevator, the young boys peaked their heads out, their apartment door and wished them good luck.

They sat around wondering what it would be like when they got their Femme. What would her name be? What would she be like? How will she react to them?" The day past slowly and the boys heard their Hyung's return along with an unfamiliar voice speaking softly as they passed their door. The five got dressed brushing their hair and teeth, making sure they looked good yet casual for a first impression.

"I have to give Namjoon back his text book" Beomgyu said and they grinned a perfect excuse to visit. Finding the text book they, rounded each other up at the front door. Walking quietly down the hallway they each pushed each other forward until Beomgyu was pushed into the door he arched his back and pulled his arms back so he didn’t touch the door. He turned to move to the back and they stopped him, telling him he borrowed the book.

The door opened after a weak knock. Hoseok looked at the boys and they gave their excuse. Hoseok let them in. "you wanted to see her, didn’t you?" Jungkook and Taehyung grinned wrestling the boys messing up their neat hair.

Stressing that they were there to return a textbook to Namjoon, Beomgyu held the book in the air. Jin from the other side of the room behind the kitchen counter started to sing the Lion King theme song. Namjoon smiled gently taking the textbook from them and they seemed to relax a little. "I will see if she is okay with visitors" Namjoon passed Yoongi in the hallway.

Femme Media 17

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lixuagi · 5 years ago

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The Cure for Death - chapter 3

MC makes a fool of herself. Again.

For a few seconds, time seems to have stopped. Nobody knows what to do. -..-Specifically you, 069. Throw the kid in the well. He doesn’t deserve more than the others.- the panic pervades the little boy again and, this time, Julian too. -I can’t do that, sir– -DO IT! Or you’re going to have to sacrifice yourself.- all of this is happening because of me. It’s all my fault. –Come on, No.069. Or maybe you don’t want to change the opinion that the “saviour” of Vesuvia has of you? Don’t think that I didn’t notice your intentions. Romantic instinct manifests itself so quickly in you beasts… it’s repulsive.- Valdemar’s grin is so wide that it almost reaches their cheekbones. -So? Nothing, no reaction? All right. Those who are silent agree, after all. You’re both going to be killed. I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty, as opposed to you cowards.- I’m paralyzed as I watch the Questor grab the little boy by the arm. I thought it was all a farce of theirs. They didn’t look so cruel when they made me wear my uniform. Now I wish I never put it on. My goal is to save people, and not just regarding medical matters. I have to do something. I move towards them before Julian can put his life at even greater risk. -No! Leave the boy alone, please! Let him go back to his family!- I throw myself at their feet, clutching a flap of their coat tightly. -Oh? And why should I do that?- they stop their pace, while the little one kicks and squirms, but this does not seem to loosen their grip at all. –It’s my fault, not theirs! I’m the one who needs to pay. Please.- the last words are a whisper choked with despair. Julian quickly approaches, ready to stop me: -MC, no!– -Wait, 069. She could offer me an interesting exchange.- interrupts the Quaestor. -Go on.- -You can do what you want of me. You can fire me, or… or kill me, if that’s what’s needed to save that child and Julian. Take my life, too. I could never forgive myself for being the cause of the death of an innocent.- not again… -… Very well.- they open their hand, releasing the hostage. What?! No! You are crossing the line!- Julian’s cries are totally ignored. Valdemar’s focus is solely on my person, as they ponder how I should pay. –Everybody, get back to your work. Immediately.- this order, after a few seconds of shock, is executed promptly. –No. 069, bring our dear patient to the exit.- -But what will you do with MC?- -Oh, you’re really interested in her. This interest is going to be the next thing I’m going to destroy if you keep showing it like that. Now go, and don’t irritate me any further.- Julian is tempted to, but eventually he obeys, coming to the conclusion that it is better for everyone’s safety. I remain on my knees, covered by the long shadow of my superior. After a few seconds in which they relish my total resignation, they decide that they’re is full of it. -Get up. I’m not going to hurt you. I need you whole and alive.- I put my hands on the ground, giving me a weak push to get back on my feet. –What are you going to do to me?- -On your rest hours you will allow me to study you.- it seems a fairly innocuous request compared to their previous threats. I nod, without even trying to explain to them that magic is a phenomenon that cannot be studied scientifically. Depriving them of this option could lead to more stringent measures. –Now go to your office. Judging by the state you were in after treating another infected patient, you should be close to fainting by now. And that’s not convenient.- they stretch a hand towards me and I instinctively back off. They look at me like I’ve done something incomprehensible and they let a key dangle from their fingers. I relax my shoulders and take it, being careful to avoid any other contact. We both have gloves, but they don’t help me feel safer from them. I quickly walk through the clinic, and slip into the room marked with my number, under dozens of astonished glances that I have carefully avoided. I close the door behind me and slump onto it, finally letting free the tears I held before. With one hand I rummage in my bag until I come into contact with the smooth surface of the amulet, which I promptly clench to my chest. I almost feel like I’m hearing Asra’s voice. “MC, inhale and exhale. Inhaaale. And exhale. That’s it, just like that.” But when I look around, there’s no one there. It’s just memories. Instead of my best friend, there’s a bare cot. I’m struggling, overwhelmed by exhaustion. The absence of windows makes me lose the perception of time, and soon my vision darkens completely as I sink into sleep.

My dreams are confused, a mixture of blurred images and mingled voices. Slowly, I focus. I’m at an elegant dance, in a salon lit by crystal chandeliers and decorated with golden festoons. The music is distorted, slowed down, but around me the participants in their glitzy outfits don’t seem to notice. I, too, dance with them, dragged by an invisible force. Suddenly everything stops. The flames of the candles perish, and only the costumes and masks remain, slumped to the ground. The cold penetrates my bones. Something else pushes me. My eyes meet the empty ones of an animal skull, partly covered by a funeral ashy veil. The figure terrifies me more than it should as I start to shout, but from my lips no sound comes out. I can’t control my body or my will, as the gloomy mask gets smaller and smaller. It’s not it who’s walking away, it’s me, I notice as my back slams into a marble pillar. I can’t get away from it, I’m forced to stick to it, held still by invisible arms. I was sure that I was wearing a dress, but I feel a tickle on the nude of my ankles. Forcing me to lower my head is almost impossible, but I manage to succeed. A beetle is climbing my calf. It’s ruby-colored, it shines with it, as if it were filled with blood. It stops its march on my thigh, then sinks its little tusks in it. I let out a cry of pain, it hurts much more than I expected, the bite burns a lot and I feel the poison that the creature injected me propagate all over my leg. There comes another sting, this time on my hand. The exoskeletons that climb on my skin instantly become a myriad, and each of them wants its portion. A particularly painful wound tarnishes my view of vermillion.

I wake up and immediately snap to my seat, sweating and panting. I put my hands all over my body in search of any insect, the nightmare seemed so real that I could swear it really was. Fortunately, there is no trace of the creatures. I look for a clock, I could have either slept ten minutes or ten hours, but as I peer every corner of my dark room I notice a figure sitting at the foot of my bed. -Ah!- I jolt backwards, slamming my back against the wall. -Don’t worry No. 100, it’s me.- the more I blink, the more I focus on the Quaestor. Even if I was blind, the slightly hoarse and gloomy voice is impossible not to recognize. -For all the Arcana, Valdemar!- I hug my knees to my chest, like I was trying to cover myself. Then I remember I never undressed and I try to assume a vaguely relaxed pose. -Why, yes, it’s me. I heard a noise from your room and suspecting that you and No. 069 had decided to secretly meet, I decided to come in.- I blush. Then why are they sitting on my bed? -Then I felt something was disturbing your sleep and I decided to try and watch you. It might be a feature that peoplewith your power share.- I’m shocked, I hope that they didn’t really read my mind to answer me. In doubt, I shout “I find you very sexy, Quaestor!” in my head, in an attempt to cause some kind of reaction. But that doesn’t happen and I feel incredibly stupid. I notice that they have a notebook in their hands where they have already taken, like any good doctor, unreadable notes. -Speaking of Julian, I mean… 069. It’s not what you think…- I mumble, while my cheeks are already starting to redden. Valdemar tilts their head in their strange mechanical manner, puzzled. Hmm? Could you explain yourself better, young nurse?- -I mean…- I keep my eyes down, torturing my fingers. I don’t care about him that way. We just met. I just liked talking to someone. I find it… reassuring.- Maybe opening me up a little bit more might soften them. And most of all, I don’t want Julian to be penalized because of me again. -Oh, you young people and your strange rituals. If that’s the case, are you implying that you don’t find me reassuring?- their thin lips stretch into a smile that’s not friendly at all. I know the game they’re playing. Come on, MC, try to find something… nice in them. I scrutinize them carefully, unconsciously approaching my face to theirs, an action to which they do not react. As green as they are, they have a smooth skin. And their face is perfectly symmetrical. No, no. That’s not reassuring. Red irises, sharp teeth. Damn, everything about them screams “danger”! However, their face is so different from the norm that it is harmonious. If I were a demon, and I had a specific standard of beauty, I think the Quaestor would reflect it. -So?- they insist, by now my answer is making too much of a wait. Quick, say something that might be a good enough answer! I think my brain short-circuited, because the first thing I spit is, -It’s not like that, you’re very pretty.- and with that, I dug my own pit. As soon as I realize what I said, I cover my face with my hands, stammering apologies to profusion: -Sorry, I did not mean to…! I mean… I… ah! – they grab my wrists, carrying my arms on my lap. -This reaction is nothing short of interesting, let me observe it.- and this said, they proceed to embarrass me even more by approaching dangerously. The bastard is perfectly aware of their actions. -I’ve seen a lot of people in my life. Yet… farce or not, you retain a strange purity. Like a body immersed in formaldehyde, the years pass but…- they squint, occasionally batting the long eyelashes. -I have to admit, it’s a strange compliment…- I mutter turning my face, unable to sustain that penetrating gaze. When they decide they have put me in awe enough, they reassemble themselves, straightening their back and carrying their hands behind them. -Do you often speak in your sleep?- they ask, their head perpetually tilted. -No, as far as I know.- even if morally the Quaestor and I are polarly opposed, I trust their medical knowledge. Maybe one day they could, with some strange serum, make my energy infinite or share my power with others. It wouldn’t hurt to have someone with my same abilities next to me. Thinking about it, that question evokes something, it is undoubtedly a déjà-vu. Yes, I remember now. Shortly after the “accident” nightmares tormented me incessantly, sometimes even as a wake-up call. I was screaming in the middle of the night. I was repeating “sorry, I’m sorry” looped. Asra was always very scared and worried too much. I rub my forearm, I don’t have anyone here to take such care of me. Not that I need it, but I find certain attentions essential. A human cannot live without love. Maybe Valdemar isn’t human, that would explain their bizarre appearance and macabre behavior. -Now that I think about it, it happens to me in times of great stress.- -I wouldn’t have done that,- the doctor tells me, voice as flat as a summer lake. -What?- -I would never have been so reckless as to kill a healthy person and an employee of mine who is just as much healthy. That would have been just another futile and instinctive action.- astonished, I elaborate their words. That’s a nice reassurance. They may be sadistic, but they certainly wouldn’t do something counterproductive. -At most I would have dissected the child later to see what mutations your magic had caused to his organs.- I burst into laughter, taking it as a joke. -What’s wrong with you?- oh yes, stress is making me laugh more than I should. When I can calm down, my eyes are shiny. -You know, you have a special sense of humor, but I think the more I’m going to stay here, the more I’m going to understand it!- I smile, relieved. They would like to tell me that they were not joking at all, but for some reason, maybe even unknown to them, they do not. -Your emotions vary very quickly.- and with this they pin something on the notebook. I let the smile hover over my lips for a while longer. –No.100, I’d like you to answer a few questions now.- I barely stiffen up, immediately going back to feeling only a figure in a sea of death. An experiment, a freak show. I can’t ask them to call me by name, how could I phrase that? It wouldn’t be professional. -I noticed that your stress level increases very easily. It’s no good. For accurate answers we will simulate a relaxing situation. For example, I’ll call you by name.- what? No, that’s not possible. “Doctor, I find you very, very sexy, please examine me from head to toe.” No reaction. Either we’re extremely in tune and I’m not realizing it, or they’re very good at hiding the fact that they are a mind-reader. Yet my attempts to frame them have no effect! Let’s try something else… “Say that I can stop calling you Quaestor and that… I can call you Val.” The doctor’s face rises from the notebook to address me directly. -It should be optimal, like this. Maybe omit formal terms like “Quaestor”, but never do that in a work environment. Only during the study.- they didn’t say anything like, “Oh, call me Val,” though, so I’m probably making it up, I have to be. -All right, doctor.- -Hm… still too rigid. Just Valdemar. I repeat, it’s just a simulation—and with that I’m standing up. I’ve had enough, this is the ultimate proof! -Oh, my God! You, I mean, you’ve heard everything!- -Are you delirious, MC?- -You heard that I think you’re… – I shut up, the confusion on the doctor’s face would be hilarious in another context. -I don’t understand.- -Stop pretending, damn it! I’ve been thinking about things and you’ve said them out loud!- -I call those coincidences.- they scrutinize me like I’m a psychopath. -It’s happened too many times for them to be coincidences!- -Either you’re predictable or maybe, and it’s just a theory, I’ve spent so much time studying behavior that even the desires and thoughts of others are not a mystery to me?- -… oh.- I slowly sit down. I still can’t believe it. I managed to make a fool of myself again. Who knows what opinion they have of me, after all my anomalous attitudes today. -Pure curiosity, what have you thought of me before, MC?- I do not know if it makes me blush more the question itself or hear my name uttered so melodically by such a contradictory and authoritarian figure. -Oh, I. Nothing… I really like your headgear.- -Excessive compliments are indicative of lying, and you’re a bad liar.- they aren’t wrong. I hope they don’t press more on the subject. -… going forward with the analysis. Have you ever suffered from particular pathologies…- I squint, focusing on him. I only have to try one last time. Think of something that would upset anyone, that would generate an emotion in any mind-reader, think, think…

“BOO!” … no reaction. On one hand I am relieved, on the other I am now sure that I’m a very stupid person.

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