#With the added layer of their shared experiences that no one else in the world can relate to fully

[hajihiko]

super important question do you think there is a deep and complex qpr/polycule with the sdr2 girls and boys respectively (and also possibly together) 🎤

🎤 👁👄👁

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Yes.

[reimeichan]

I think it's easy for me to talk about fusion and integration as a whole, because that's what feels most natural for me. But I've started thinking about what it feels like as a specific part of me- and I think that's a useful perspective to have, especially when it comes to trying to share and express how that feels for others who haven't experienced it for themselves, for those who want to but aren't there yet, and for those who never will but are still curious.

For me, it feels like I was missing a part of me that I didn't even realize was missing until I fused. I didn't realize just how much of my own... like, ability to feel emotions and experience life? was missing, and each time I fused it felt like my awareness of myself and my surroundings widened and became clearer. I feel like with each fusion, my emotions became deeper and more layered, my understanding of the world more nuanced, and my memories more detailed. If I were to use metaphors, it feels similar to putting on glasses for the first time, or adjusting a camera's focus. But it also feels like adding color to a drawing. Or... you know those TV shows or movies where you're given one perspective of an event, and then as the story unfolds you see that same event from different perspectives and you realize you actually didn't have the whole picture beforehand? It feels kind of like that, but applied to my entire life and my entire understanding of what it means to live and exist in this world.

Speaking of perspectives, it feels like I can now move between these different perspectives easily, or even see things from multiple perspectives at the same time. I have more context for things that I otherwise would have never questioned before.

And while I'm aware of all of this happening to me specifically as a part... I'm also aware of the other parts of me experiencing the same thing. We're all going through this together, after all, and adjusting to this to be our new normal. It's kinda funky to be able to feel and see things from each of our points of view at the same time, and it was definitely quite overwhelming at first. But it's better now, and I'm less scared of having access to all of these memories and emotions and stuff that had been kept away from me. I'm even starting to accept what it means to be happy and to deeply, truly love people. That's a huge step for me, and I'm excited to see what else fusion and integration has in store for me.

[princessofmerchants]

Nesta and the Cauldron 💫 - a list of questions and puzzle pieces post-HOFAS

"... Wrapped in black eternity, Nesta and the Cauldron twined, burning through the darkness like a newborn star."

—from "Beginning," the prologue of A Court of Silver Flames

(HOFAS spoilers after the break)

I began rereading ACOSF post-HOFAS and boy was I shocked and delighted by what I found in the very first scene of the book, which is also one of my favorite scenes in all of SJM canon...

Here's a screenshot of the last part of the prologue to ACOSF, called "Beginning".

After reading HOFAS, and learning what we did from the Starborn Princess Silene, along with the events of that book as well as those in ACOSF and going all the way back to ACOMAF,

I have new questions!

What could it mean that Nesta and Elain, both humans, were submerged in the Cauldron in the same way the magical objects of the Fae like Gwydion, Truthteller, and the Dread Trove items were? Does the fact that they were alive themselves first, and human at that, make a difference? (We know from the Blood Rite magic that Nesta is not recognized as a Made magical object in the Rite because her magic is suppressed like everyone else's...)

Was the Cauldron in Hybern different (more corrupt, perhaps from Fionn's death and his potential link to the health of the world in which Prythian resides), than it was when it Made Gwydion, Truthteller, and the Trove items? Or was its corruption (wrongness) the same kind that originates from the Daglan poisoning it before Gwydion and the Trove were Made?

When Nesta stole a large portion of the Cauldron's "raw power," was there more to the power besides its connection to Death, that somehow ties in to either the Starborn power that originates and thrives in the island of the Prison, or perhaps instead to the ancient Fae power that predates the seasonal and solar elemental power affinities that evolved after the time of High King Fionn? Is it similar or different to the way the Starsword/Gwydion and its imbued Made power has an affinity for the Staborn line of Fae?

We know at the end of ACOSF and from HOFAS that the Mother prevents all of Nesta's stolen power from leaving her when she bargains with the Cauldron and the Mother to save Feyre - and here in the ACOSF prologue Nesta and the Cauldron together are described as a newborn star. In being Made by the Cauldron, then first stealing its power but later being gifted back with some of it by the Mother - is there a connection or affinity here also to the power of the land on which the Prison sits that was forged through this process?

Regarding Nesta's bargain tattoo, which was an eight pointed star, the symbol of the Starborn power and its people - is the Mother (Urd in Midgardian parlance) the source of bargain magic in Prythian? As Bryce asks to Nesta - Why was Nesta's bargain tattoo with Cassian an eight pointed star? And also, why do the Illyrians (who were created by the Daglan but led by their ancester Enalius in alliance with the Fae in defeating those same Daglan) have a sword technique and sequence that takes this shape too? And what do any of these details have to do with 1) Gwydion and its Making in the Cauldron, and/or 2) Nesta and HER Making in the Cauldron?

And don't think I've forgotten about Elain - the longtime question of What happened when she went in the Cauldron? remains but with the added layer of how her own experience in the Cauldron and its gifting of Seer powers may or may not be similar or different to not only how the ancient Fae Made objects were imbued with power but also how her sister Nesta was imbued with (that same?) power?

Put differently, is this newborn star imagery (experience?) of Nesta and the Cauldron unique to Nesta because of the amount (and kind) of raw power she took, or is it shared among all humans who have been immersed in the Cauldron (of which we know of three - Nesta, Elain, and Briallyn, though Briallyn is now Unmade - and Jurian we can assume was brought back using the Cauldron with his eye but from what we can tell he has come back human and not Fae, and so we can presume while he was brought back from a terrible half existence, he wasn't Made, at least we have no evidence he has been...)

I'm just really, really interested in the following puzzle pieces:

-Gwydion, Truthteller, and the Trove were Made in the Cauldron

-Nesta and Elain were also Made in the Cauldron, but when Nesta was made she stole raw power from the essence of the Cauldron itself, enough to disable it for a time

-This transfer of power from the Cauldron to Nesta reminds me of how Silene talks about the power of the ancient Fae of Prythian including the Starborn power, and the material way Theia's Star power gets divided into three parts that are reunited by Bryce but that had actual physical locations for thousands of years (pointing out as well that the Cauldron has also always had a physical, material location throughout history)

-The Mother gifted Nesta with some of the power she had stolen then offered back in a bargain to save Feyre - we see that gifted power in action in HOFAS to great effect

-Nesta's bargain tattoo with Cassian was the symbol of the Staborn people and their power and also the symbol of an Illyrian sword technique

-Bryce, Starborn Heir, thinks these things connect Nesta to Gwydion, which was Made by the Cauldron just like Nesta was and which can be wielded by those who possess the Starborn power in some capacity

-Nesta can move through the wards in the Prison in a way no one else in Prythian seems to be able to, and in a way Bryce (Starborn line descendent) could too

I'm not going to actually predict any concrete theories from all of this. But we also know SJM committed to the existence of a multi-verse when KoA was published, after which HOEAB was published, followed by ACOSF....lots of time to think through how she was going to describe Nesta stealing power from the Cauldron in this scene.

I think there's meaning in this ACOSF prologue we are only just beginning to understand, about what the consequences of this tangling between Nesta and the Cauldron will in fact be. 💫

(And, it's the year of our Lord 2024 and there are new things to write and think about Nesta and the Cauldron - what a time to be alive 💃)

[mdzsfan]

Unspoken Bonds Part 4

GIF by yuuriiviktor on Tumblr

Ever since the tender moment they shared with the bunnies, something had shifted in Lan Wangji. A subtle change in his demeanor became evident whenever y/n was around. His ears would turn a faint shade of red, and a bashful blush would grace his usually composed face. It was a transformation that didn't go unnoticed, especially by Wei Wuxian, who took great delight in teasing him about it.

The teasing would evoke a glare from Lan Wangji, a silent response that spoke volumes about his discomfort with having his emotions on display. Yet, amidst the playful banter and the occasional embarrassment, there was a warmth that had settled in the air. A warmth that mirrored the feelings that had taken root within his heart.

Sitting together over a cup of tea, y/n broached the topic of Wei Wuxian. Her words were gentle, an attempt to bridge the gap between Lan Wangji and his friend. "You know, a-xian is not really that bad," she remarked, her gaze sincere.

A flicker of tension crossed Lan Wangji's expression, his unease evident. "No nicknames, only me," he responded, his possessiveness peeking through as he asserted his claim on her.

Y/n nodded, understanding the unspoken message behind his words. "Okay," she acquiesced, her hand reaching out to pat his arm reassuringly. "But I think once you get to know Master Wei better, you'll definitely like him better."

The mention of Wei Wuxian seemed to set off a wave of jealousy within Lan Wangji, his emotions evident in the subtle change in his demeanor. He was not one to easily share his feelings, and the idea of y/n being close to someone else seemed to awaken a protective instinct within him.

"No more talking about him," Lan Wangji's tone held a note of finality, his eyes fixed on her with an intensity that was hard to ignore. "Focus on me."

Y/n couldn't help but smile, touched by his possessiveness. His vulnerability, though often hidden beneath layers of stoicism, was a reminder of the depth of his feelings.

As the conversation shifted, y/n shared a glimpse of her past. Her words were filled with nostalgia as she recounted the festivals and the lanterns of Caiyi town. The image of children with their parents, the vibrant colors, and the laughter seemed to come alive in her words.

"But it doesn't matter now, since that's the past," y/n concluded, her voice carrying a mixture of acceptance and a tinge of sadness.

Lan Wangji's gaze never wavered from her, his expression unreadable as he absorbed her words. 

With the passage of time, as Lan Wangji continued to learn more about y/n's past and the experiences she had missed out on, a desire to create new memories seemed to take root within him. He recognized the significance of those missed opportunities, and he was determined to offer her moments of joy that she had long yearned for.

As the next Yuan Xiao festival in Caiyi town approached, Lan Wangji quietly made arrangements. He knew that this festival held special meaning for her, and he wanted to ensure that her experience would be a memorable one.

When the day arrived, there was an air of anticipation that hung around them. Y/n, guided by Lan Wangji's intentions, found herself blindfolded with a cloth. The mystery of their destination added to the sense of adventure that was building within her.

As they journeyed to Caiyi town, y/n's heart raced with a mixture of curiosity and excitement. The blindfold was a barrier that heightened her senses, allowing her to focus on the sounds and scents around her. The world seemed to become a symphony of sensations, each one a clue to the surprise that awaited her.

The journey was filled with a quiet intimacy. Their shared presence, the steady rhythm of their footsteps, and the promise of the festival ahead seemed to draw them closer. Y/n's trust in Lan Wangji was unwavering, a testament to the connection they had forged over time.

Finally, they arrived at their destination, the vibrant heart of Caiyi town. The air was filled with the aroma of delicacies, the sound of laughter, and the sight of colorful lanterns illuminating the night sky. The festival was in full swing, a celebration of light and joy that had a timeless quality.

Lan Wangji's hand remained a constant presence, guiding her through the bustling crowds. The blindfold remained in place, a veil that separated her from the visual spectacle before her. 

As the blindfold was gently lifted away by Lan Wangji's hands, y/n's eyes blinked in surprise and wonder. Before her stood a scene of enchantment, the town adorned with intricate decorations, lanterns casting a warm and inviting glow, and a palpable atmosphere of celebration. The sight that greeted her was even more breathtaking than she had imagined, a visual feast that seemed to reflect the emotions that had grown between them.

"You remembered!" Her exclamation carried a joyous disbelief, a testament to the thought and care that Lan Wangji had put into this moment. Her heart swelled with gratitude and happiness, emotions that were reflected in the embrace she enveloped him in.

"Hmm," his response was a simple affirmation, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he allowed himself to bask in her delight. His efforts had been rewarded, and the sight of her happiness was a treasure that he held close.

Together, they wandered through the festivities. The vibrant colors, the laughter that echoed in the air, and the shared moments of wonder seemed to wash away any remnants of the past. It was as if the festival had the power to create new memories, to overwrite the moments that had been missed, and to replace them with the beauty of the present.

Their fingers intertwined as they sampled tangyuan, the sweetness of the delicacies a reflection of the shared sweetness between them. Each bite seemed to carry with it the promise of their growing connection, a connection that had transcended barriers and had led them to this moment of shared joy.

And then came the lanterns. A symbol of hope, wishes, and the beauty of release. As they lit their lantern together, their hands working in harmony, there was a sense of unity that enveloped them. The lantern's glow cast gentle shadows on their faces, a testament to the light they had found in each other.

The lantern lifted off the ground, its ascent accompanied by a whispered prayer, a silent wish that seemed to encapsulate their shared hopes for the future.

As Y/N gazed upon the enchanting sight of countless lanterns ascending into the velvety night sky, her heart swelled with a mixture of awe and wonder. Each lantern seemed to carry not just the flickering flame within, but also the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of those who released them. The dark canvas of the heavens was being painted with a myriad of shimmering lights, a celestial ballet orchestrated by human hands.

Lan Wangji's fingers delicately tilted her chin upward, his touch igniting a cascade of shivers down her spine. The cool night air seemed to hold its breath, as if the very cosmos were holding witness to this intimate exchange. And then, in a move that felt both inevitable and surprising, his lips met hers in a kiss that held multitudes.

The kiss was a paradox, a collision of love and urgency, of tenderness and longing. It was as though Lan Wangji was pouring into this kiss all the emotions that his reserved nature had kept hidden, a torrent of feeling that threatened to breach the walls he had so carefully built around his heart. Y/N could taste the bittersweet intensity, a flavor that left her both satiated and craving more.

The lanterns continued their ascent, oblivious to the intricacies of human emotions unfolding below. In their rising light, Y/N felt the weight of Lan Wangji's unspoken words, the depth of his affections that transcended mere vocabulary. It was a moment suspended between the earthly realm and the infinite expanse above, a moment that held the promise of a future woven with shared dreams and whispered promises.

As their lips finally parted, Y/N found herself lost in Lan Wangji's gaze. A gaze that held understanding, vulnerability, and a silent vow to stand beside her through the tapestry of life's uncertainties. The lanterns had begun to fade into the distance, their ethereal glow merging with the stars that adorned the night sky.

The whisper of her gratitude hung in the air, as delicate and profound as the lanterns that graced the firmament. "Thank you, A-Zhan," her voice was a soft murmur, a secret shared between their hearts, "for making this the happiest day in my life." And then, with a tenderness that matched the emotion imbued within her words, she leaned in, placing a gentle kiss upon his cheek. It was a kiss that held within it a world of unspoken affection, a promise of more to come.

In response, Lan Wangji's fingers found solace in her hair, his touch a feather-light caress that communicated a silent agreement, an acknowledgment of the depth of his feelings. He lowered his lips to her forehead, a gesture that was both protective and tender, an unspoken pledge to guard her heart as fiercely as he did his own.

They stood there, wrapped in each other's embrace, their souls entwined as they watched the lanterns dance their way heavenward. The delicate paper vessels seemed to carry not just the dreams of those who set them free, but the aspirations of the two hearts that beat in unison. Each lantern's ascent mirrored their own rise, their journey towards a shared future that held the promise of infinite possibilities.

As the night progressed, nature's orchestra played on. But amidst the symphony of lanterns and stars, a softer melody emerged, a rumbling that couldn't be attributed to the celestial realm. Y/N's stomach, seemingly awakened by the emotional whirlwind of the evening, let out a quiet growl. Lan Wangji's lips curved into an amused smile, a rare and endearing sight.

Chuckling softly, he shifted his gaze from the luminous sky to her. "Seems like someone is hungry," he remarked, his voice a soothing melody that blended seamlessly with the night. His hand found hers, their fingers intertwining naturally.

Guiding her with a gentle tug, Lan Wangji led Y/N toward a quaint restaurant that lay nestled nearby. Its warm lights spilled onto the cobblestone path, inviting them into a haven of flavors and aromas. The ambiance was cozy, a stark contrast to the expansive night sky they had been immersed in just moments before.

In the cozy embrace of the restaurant, Y/N and Lan Wangji found themselves seated across from one another, a table laden with steaming dishes and the promise of culinary delights. The transition from the celestial dance of lanterns to the intimate sanctuary of this eatery was seamless, a continuation of the evening's journey that now delved into the realm of earthly pleasures.

As Y/N deftly poured the fragrant tea, each nodded their heads in understanding. The tendrils of steam rose, like fleeting spirits ascending from the porcelain vessels, carrying with them the essence of warmth and camaraderie. The anticipation of the meal danced in the air, a tantalizing prelude to the flavors that awaited their palates.

With a graceful synchronicity, the food arrived, a symphony of colors and aromas that beckoned to be savored. Each dish exuded a vibrancy that contrasted the serene simplicity of the Cloud Recesses, as if the very essence of this restaurant was to awaken the senses. The plates were laden with spices and seasonings that set the air aquiver with their tantalizing scent, a fragrant invitation to embark on a culinary adventure unlike any other.

However, as Y/N took her first cautious bite, a fiery explosion of flavors engulfed her palate. The heat was intense, far more potent than anything she had encountered within the tranquil confines of Cloud Recesses. The foreign spiciness set her mouth ablaze, igniting a fit of coughing that seized her unexpectedly. She reached for her tea, her hand trembling as she brought the cup to her lips, desperate for relief.

Yet, the tea that met her tongue bore no resemblance to the soothing brews she had grown accustomed to. It was bitter, a stark contrast to the comfort of a warm embrace. The bitterness lingered, like a reminder that the journey of discovery was not always paved with sweetness alone.

Lan Wangji observed her with a mixture of concern and amusement, his gaze a steady anchor amidst the storm of flavors assaulting her senses. With a gentle touch, he reached for his own cup of tea and held it out to her, a silent offering of solace and camaraderie. It was a gesture that spoke volumes, an unspoken assurance that they were in this together, navigating the uncharted territories of taste as they had navigated the uncharted territories of the heart.

Amidst her coughing and the jolt of unexpected flavors, Y/N managed a rueful smile, a smile that carried within it the recognition of the absurdity of the moment. She sipped from Lan Wangji's cup, the bitterness of the tea blending with the warmth of their connection. 

As Y/N and Lan Wangji emerged from the restaurant, the afterglow of their shared meal lingered like a comforting shroud around them. The scents of the culinary journey they had embarked upon still lingered, mingling with the night air as if to ensure that every step they took was accompanied by a reminder of the flavors and laughter that had graced their evening.

Y/N's eyes were fixed on Lan Wangji, an enchanting mixture of admiration and playfulness dancing within their depths. The moonlight painted him with a silvery glow, casting an ethereal aura around his figure. With a soft chuckle, she let her thoughts slip into words, her voice a gentle breeze that carried the weight of her musings.

"Wangji," she began, a playful cadence in her voice, "how do you manage to be the most handsome man?" Her words held a note of wonder, as if she were genuinely perplexed by the charisma he effortlessly exuded. Her gaze remained locked on him, a warm smile playing at the corners of her lips.

Lan Wangji's lips curved in a half-smile, a hint of amusement twinkling in his eyes. His humility and quiet confidence were like twin currents beneath his exterior, a magnetic pull that seemed to draw people to him without him even realizing it. He met her gaze with a softness that spoke of shared moments and a connection that transcended mere words.

The corner of her lips twitched upward as she continued, her voice now laced with mock protest, "It's not fair that you attract all the girls." Her words were delivered with a playful tone, revealing the camaraderie that often characterized their interactions. She teased him affectionately, her words a gentle reminder that his allure was undeniable.

Lan Wangji's laughter, though rare, was a sound that held a certain charm, as if it were the embodiment of the unguarded moments he allowed himself to experience. His fingers found hers, intertwining as if they were part of the same story that had been unfolding throughout the evening. His gaze held a warmth that matched the night's gentle embrace, a warmth that enveloped her and made her feel cherished.

And then, as if to amplify the shared laughter and camaraderie, Y/N leaned in with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. "Guess what I'm thinking," she declared, her words carrying a playful weight as she leaned into the alcohol's pleasant haze.

"How you want to stay here forever?" Lan Wangji's words carried a touch of amusement, a reflection of the shared enchantment that had woven itself into the fabric of their evening. The serenity of the night seemed to amplify his sentiment, making the moment feel as if it were suspended in time.

Y/N's gaze flickered to him, a playful grin tugging at the corners of her lips. "Hmmm," she mused, her voice holding a note of thoughtful contemplation, "Close. But I was actually thinking how incredibly lucky I am to have you." Her words were an echo of the feelings that had been swelling within her heart, a sentiment that she had carried through the twists and turns of their journey.

A gentle chuckle escaped Lan Wangji's lips, his laughter a gentle melody that harmonized with the night. Her candidness was a treasure he cherished, a glimpse into the inner workings of her heart that left him both humbled and grateful. He met her gaze, the affection in his eyes a silent affirmation of the emotions that coursed between them.

The softness of their exchange was punctuated by Y/N's curiosity, her words carrying the weight of her inquiry. "You feel the same way, right?" she asked, her tone a mixture of curiosity and vulnerability. Her cuteness was endearing, an aspect of her personality that never failed to elicit a smile from him.

Lan Wangji's laughter danced in the air once again, a sound that held a warmth that mirrored the adoration he felt for her. "Hmm," he replied, his voice a gentle caress that enveloped her like a protective embrace. And then, as if to seal his words with a gesture, he leaned down and pressed a soft kiss upon her head. It was a gesture that held the weight of unspoken promises, a promise to stand by her side through all the moments life would unfold.

As they continued their walk, Y/N's condition began to betray the effects of the evening's indulgences. The laughter and emotions seemed to have spun her into a state of intoxication that left her feeling blissfully unaware of her surroundings. Sensing her condition, Lan Wangji's protective instincts kicked in, guiding him to a decision that would ensure her comfort and safety.

With a tender touch, he gently led her to a nearby inn. The inn's warm lights spilled onto the pavement, a welcoming beacon that promised respite from the outside world. 

Stepping into the embrace of the room, the transition from the outside world to this private haven was a shift in atmosphere. The air was filled with a gentle serenity, a haven that promised respite and the continuation of their shared journey through the night.

As Lan Wangji approached Y/N, his fingers moved deftly to untangle the intricate folds of her hanfu. His touch was a delicate dance, a symphony of care that mirrored the connection they shared. The moon's soft glow filtered through the curtains, casting a silvery sheen over their surroundings.

With a hint of a smile, Y/N's gaze met his, her eyes shimmering with affection. "Wangji, you know," she began, her voice a soft whisper that carried the weight of unspoken thoughts. Her words held a sense of familiarity, as if she were about to share a secret that was meant for his ears alone.

Lan Wangji's touch paused for a moment, his gaze fixed on hers as he awaited her revelation. There was a depth to his attention, a curiosity that held the promise of understanding and connection.

"You should smile more," her voice was a cascade of giggles, a melody that danced through the room like a gentle breeze, "instead of being the grumpy man you always are." Her words held a playfully teasing lilt, a sentiment that was conveyed with a tender mirth. Her eyes sparkled with mischief, a reflection of the carefree state that the night had ushered in.

A soft chuckle escaped Lan Wangji's lips, his amusement a glint in his eyes as he met her playful gaze. Her candidness was both endearing and refreshing, an aspect of her personality that never failed to elicit a response from him.

"Is that so?" he replied, his tone a blend of wry humor and genuine curiosity. His fingers resumed their delicate task, his touch carrying a warmth that mirrored the night's gentle embrace. "Perhaps I shall consider your suggestion," he added, his voice a melodic cadence that danced with the rhythm of their shared moment.

Her laughter echoed in the room, a sound that seemed to fill the space with joy and light. "It does," she affirmed with a bright grin, her words carrying a certainty that could only come from someone who had glimpsed beyond his reserved exterior. "It suits you more. A smile like yours can light up the night."

The corners of Lan Wangji's lips curved into a genuine smile, a rare and precious sight that seemed to illuminate the room with its warmth. Her words had touched a chord within him, a chord that resonated with the truth that had been hidden beneath the surface all along.

As the night's enchantment finally succumbed to the pull of slumber, Y/N found herself drifting into a peaceful sleep on the bed. The room seemed to embrace her, cocooning her in a realm of dreams and quietude. Lan Wangji's gaze lingered on her as she settled, his emotions a tumultuous sea that he navigated with care

With a tender touch, he pressed a kiss upon her temple, a gesture that held a multitude of feelings. Relief washed over him as he realized that she was peacefully asleep, her rest a balm to his own tumultuous thoughts. The unspoken currents of desire and restraint had coursed through him, but in her slumber, he found solace, the knowledge that he could safeguard her heart even when his own was in turmoil.

As he nestled beside her, sleep claimed him as well, their breaths falling into a rhythm that echoed the harmony of their connection.

Y/N was awakened by a throbbing headache that seemed to have taken a residence in her temples. She groaned softly, her hand instinctively moving to cradle her head as if to contain the pain.

But amidst the haze of discomfort, her awareness was soon greeted by the gentle sensation of kisses upon her skin. Her eyes fluttered open, her gaze meeting Lan Wangji's as he pressed kisses upon her lips and temple. The sweetness of his gestures chased away the remnants of her headache, leaving only a warm ache in her heart.

Before she could even formulate her thoughts, she found herself being lifted onto his lap, her confusion melting into a mixture of surprise and affection. His closeness enveloped her, his arms a protective embrace that seemed to banish any lingering discomfort.

"Lan Wangji," she began, her voice a blend of curiosity and vulnerability, "why did you kiss me?" Her words flowed like a gentle stream, carrying with them the unspoken queries that had taken root in her thoughts. Her fingers trailed over her lips, as if she could still feel the echo of his kisses upon them.

His hold tightened around her as she nestled her face into his neck, the comfort of his presence soothing the uncertainties that had plagued her thoughts. Her questions tumbled forth, each word a fragile thread that wove a tapestry of her feelings.

"Why are you holding me like this? Why do you want to be with me, when I have no family and I'm just a maid?" Her voice held a mixture of confusion and yearning, a yearning to understand the depths of his affections and the reasons that had led him to this point.

Lan Wangji's gaze held a tenderness that seemed to pierce through the layers of doubt and insecurity that shrouded her. His fingers threaded through her hair, his touch an anchor that held her close. With a gentle grace, he tilted her chin upward, his eyes locking onto hers as he offered a soft smile.

"I never saw you as just a maid from the very first day," he confessed, his words carrying a weight that resonated deep within her heart. "I will never treat you like one, because you are mine. My wife, my soulmate, and my everything." His voice held a quiet intensity, a fervor that underscored the truth of his words.

And then, as if to seal his declaration, he pressed another kiss upon her lips, a kiss that held the promise of a future woven with shared dreams, overcoming obstacles, and the unbreakable bond that had been forged between them. In that moment, amidst the soft morning light, Y/N felt the weight of his love, a love that transcended societal boundaries and embraced the depths of their souls.

[comicweek]

Ángel Manuel Soto - on Carapax backstory and shooting Blue Beetle

Brian Davids: I’ve always liked Raoul Max Trujillo, and Carapax represents a huge opportunity for him. Was the character’s School of the Americas backstory something you pulled from your Bane pitch? 

 Ángel Manuel Soto: Yeah, when we were building the character of Carapax as a Latino villain in the movie, I purposefully wanted him to have a reason why he’s a villain. Oftentimes, when Latinos are villains in movies, they never tell you why. They’re just bad people, and I think that stereotype has been very harmful to our community. There’s a lot of obscure history in Latin America that the history books don’t teach us, but all of Latin America knows it. A lot of the violence has been perpetrated in part by U.S. military interventionism, and one of the more obscure topics is the School of the Americas, which started the whole neoliberalism movement. Even before it was called the School of the Americas [in 1963], it was a more organized attempt from the CIA to inflict the same type of interventionism, only they were using locals to do it for them.

So this history has never been taught in schools, and we wanted to have our characters live in a world that is grounded in the realities that affect us. And when we were developing Raoul Max Trujillo’s character, we always had the idea that maybe Carapax and Bane came from the same experiments. Of course, the backstory of Bane is different. His whole journey is very different from Carapax, but the fact that they’re both victims of historical exploitation in our communities is something that I wanted to share. Maybe they brushed shoulders or maybe they never saw each other, but they’re both victims of a similar experimentation.

BD: Can you say what you went back and added earlier this year during those couple days of additional photography? 

AS: To be honest, we didn’t add anything that wasn’t in the script already. We shot things that were in the script, but we just didn’t have time to do them [during principal photography]. In order for me to finish the movie, we needed those extra days. So they weren’t necessarily reshoots, but we did reshoot one scene to make it tighter. Everything else was a lot of the backstory that was very important to the story and Raoul Max Trujillo’s character. It was very important for me to tell the backstory of our villain, and that was pretty much the reason why we continued shooting. So I don’t call it reshoots; it was just finishing what was promised to me.

BD: Besides the Nana reveal, Carapax’s backstory was my favorite part of the movie, especially since it led to Jaime (Xolo Maridueña) showing compassion.

AS: I fought for that scene and to be able to tell the story of the interventionism in Latin America. If you go through Latin American cinema, all this stuff has been explored, but it’s never been explored in mainstream Hollywood. So we had a minute to showcase this history of violence and how the exploitation and the weaponization of somebody else’s trauma has been used, historically, to inflict more violence on behalf of corporations that only want greed and power. So now that you mention it, it was very important to show that, and I think that is my proudest moment in the movie. We need to recognize that these issues are not just fantasy. They’re very, very real, and if we’re more aware of stuff like this, I believe that we can have a more compassionate and empathetic world.

BD: And revealing Carapax’s backstory in reverse probably had a lot to do with the moment landing as well as it did.

AS: Yeah, doing it backwards was a creative decision. We designed that whole sequence as a peeling back of layers to get to the root of Carapax’s trauma, which was the fact that this kid witnessed the death of his mom. And then through that experience, he now understands that the woman [Victoria Kord] who’s been exploiting him was responsible, to some extent, for everything that caused his trauma.

[dashielldeveron]

HRGHH I LOVE THE WHOLE TEACHER STUDENT RELATIONSHIP THING WITH AIZAWA BC OF ITS LIKE FORRIBIDDEN NATURE ANY FIC RECS TOO?? YOU SOULMATE SERIES SLAYED ME

ah. this one is harder bc i teach. teaching pedagogy/ethics/fic recs under cut.

tl;dr: my teaching fucks my view of teacher/student. fic recs at end.

so, as a grad student, i teach at the college level rn, and i've also taught at the high school and middle school levels. and like. i had an interest in teacher/student fics before that and would read anything, picturing myself in the student role, but now that i've been a teacher, it's extremely difficult for me to fully immerse myself in teacher/student bc there's sooooooo much going on to fuck with the relationship.

i address some of this in aizawa's route of soulmate trope itself: how students don't really function fully as People in your brain (i mean of course you are bc you're valuing them as an individual), bc you're always thinking of them as a movable unit in grading and group work. and like. at the end of the day, you are Tired of teaching shit. you don't want to bring work home with you, and, like, you don't want to talk about your students unless someone did something stupid that day.

and i know my experiences are not universal, but i find it hard to identify any students as people i would even want to be friends with irl, let alone something more as profs do in fiction, bc there's SUCH a level of disconnect of power/understanding/stages in life. students are very much Not Your Peers in a traditionally academic setting, and so--for me, at least--that makes it impossible to feel romantic things for a student. but, again, i don't experience everything the same way everyone else does. i know these things happen.

all of that to say that if a fic is strictly student/teacher, it has to fit my silly, extremely specific criteria of "ethical student/teacher," which is, at the fucking minimum, that the student is no longer taking that teacher's class.

so, i mostly read aizawa/reader in which reader either has never been his student or is no longer his student, bc while there's a ton of really sexy stuff out there for current teacher/student, i can't get into those without thinking about work, the on-paper reprecussions, and how much i would never want to get involved romantically/sexually with a guy who's that willing to sacrifice his morals/workplace dynamic. i know. personal preference.

anyway! recs.

@coffee-dessert's absolutely fucking adorable But they're soft... freshly debuted pro-hero aizawa is transformed into a cat by a villain's quirk, and reader takes care of cat!aizawa in her flat. some of the cutest fluff i've ever read and does some wonderful character work with young hero aizawa. also! i adore how it feels distinctly japanese, as opposed to very americanised/westernised as some fics do.

Nothing's Changed by an orphaned account has reader turning into a cat this time! it's part of her quirk, and when it won't turn off, she goes back to her high school friend aizawa to do it. this is soooo feel-good and soft; it's like drinking hot chocolate near a frosty window.

Rakata by L0chnessM0nster (can't find a tumblr; please let me know if you can) is the absolute, most immersive fic i've ever read, no exaggeration. i read this and shut out the entire world. aizawa has a side job as a massuse, and it seemlessly devolves into intense kink shit. this.............awoke things in me.

but if you're really set on student/teacher, i love this kakashi/reader, For the Longest Time, by @whats-her-quirk!! it's from kakashi's POV and constantly rags on his morality and is suuuuuuper caring and hot--plus, it has that added layer of reader wants him to be her first. (non-traditionally-academic teacher/student is much easier for me to get into, and this fic scratches alllllll the itches).

thanks for asking!!! i love sharing things i love!!! xx.

[sixty-silver-wishes]

If I could pick your brain for a bit, i was wondering if you had any cabinet of dr caligari theories on why alan doesn't seem to have a "real life" counterpart in the framing device/how he actually died or if he was even real at all. I have my own pet theories, but i love the way you disect and analyze the movie so i wanted to ask ^-^

I’ve thought about this a lot, and there are a ton of theories and interpretations I’ve heard, but to me, Alan represents lost innocence. He may have been based off a counterpart or just a construction of Francis’ imagination, but looking at this from both a postwar perspective and a psychological perspective, I feel this is the interpretation I like best.

Before WWI, many soldiers had never actually seen war, and so eagerly enlisted, only to be faced with a level of violence and brutality on a scale so wide that WWI was deemed “the war to end all wars”- of course, until WWII. Alan, similarly, is eager to go to the fair, where his fate will be decided. We don’t see very much of him, but from what we do see, he’s energetic, optimistic, and in love (and whether that’s with Jane, Francis, or both is up to interpretation!). When he asks Cesare how long he has to live, he does this with enthusiasm. Again, I’ve seen multiple interpretations of why this is the case, but from this angle, I think it lines up with the concept of young soldiers in WWI, eagerly marching to their deaths. (My friend has an interesting theory that Alan was a trench buddy whose death Francis felt responsible for, and I’ve also seen theories that Francis is queer, and Alan is his ideal man. I like both of these theories, and there’s a lot of angles you can go with here.)

From a different, more abstract perspective, I think Alan can represent Francis’ lost innocence. It’s never explained why Francis is in the asylum (Hans Janowitz, one of the screenwriters, didn’t even want the asylum scene added in, but it was added to soften the film’s anti-authority themes. Nonetheless, I think the asylum scene can also support an anti-authority reading, but that’s another post.) but due to a number of shared elements- for example, “Caligari” being the asylum director in both scenarios- I personally believe that Francis had some sort of traumatic experience and couldn’t process it properly, and projects his own experiences onto the people around him in order to cope. In Francis’ head, he gets to be the hero, the brave investigator to make sense of a chaotic, nonsensical world.

And yet, he still can’t save Alan. If anything, Alan has to die, or else the rest of the plot can’t happen.

Perhaps Alan represents Francis’ own mind before a traumatic event. Again, he is bubbly and carefree, before being suddenly cut down. We can also recontextualize him asking how long he has to live in this way, perhaps with his death representing the moment Francis’ innocence (and possibly sanity) was shattered. While this isn’t always the case, traumatic events can be flashbulb memories, where people remember the exact date and time they took place. With this in mind, “tomorrow’s dawn” may symbolize the moment of the event, in which Francis’ innocence is destroyed. He spends the rest of the film trying to solve Alan’s murder, maybe to give himself some catharsis- if he cannot save his own innocence, at least in his head, he can avenge it.

Also, this is strictly headcanon territory, but I hc Alan as a poet. This not only provides some contrast to Francis’ logical, at times aggressive, personality, but from a postwar perspective, adds a layer of symbolism in terms of WWI being the death of the Romantic movement. The fact that he’s killed by Cesare, whose costuming and movements suggest Expressionist art, can also symbolize the violence of WWI giving rise to Expressionism, which pushes human emotions to the extreme in a stylized, unnatural way as a response to the war, and the end of Romanticism, which celebrates the beauty of the natural world and human emotion.

[happysecrets]

Mayra Penaranda sits in a coffee shop in Seattle, Washington talking to me on a zoom call about the development of her photography and who she is as a creator. In her words she is above all, an artist. Born in Miami,Mayra began working in photography and mixed media at the age of 14. After graduating high school she would attend college in NYC where she spend the next 7 years experimenting and building upon her craft. Her next stop after college would be Seattle, Washington where she lives now.

Currently Mayra has been experimenting with the outdoors and nature. Overall Mayra describes her work as “experimental processes in photography and film.” She adds a range of elements that combine textures, collages, and movement as well as altering negatives or tampering with the photo using fire or liquids. Her photographs bring a sense of nostalgia for me. Like the feeling of being in love with somebody for the first time.

What was the first project that sparked everything? “For my final project there I did this black and white long exposure photography series where I just took a bunch of self-portraits and I essentially asked my classmates to submit anonymous questions to me that I would answer and pair them with the images and I love the idea of taking a photograph and adding something else to it whether that’s text at the time or later like I do now more layered work. That was the first time I thought I could convey something deeper or communicate or process something or create something apart from just the photograph.”

Do you have any plants or pets?

“I have a 2 year old hound dog named Odin, who is just as weird and anxious as me. I’m proud to say I went from killing every plant I tried to own to owning several and even propagating plants, so there is hope out there for anyone else who is this way. We can grow and take care of living things! I hope to have many children some day and I hope they don’t think my art is cringe and like my cooking.”

Why do you do what you do?

 “I do what I do because it’s the only way I’ve ever felt comfortable expressing myself. Art is almost kind of ironic and safe in a lot of ways, being direct is almost too much for me even though I find myself making art that’s pretty emotionally revealing, I love concealing it in layers of colors and film grain and flowers.”

What makes you happy?

I love purples, blues, purples, pinks, reds, and oranges when I’m happy and black and white when I’m sentimental

What scares you?

I’m scared of tsunamis and waking up very old one day with no home filled with food, love, art, kids, animals and laughter.

Any upcoming projects?

I’m currently working on a series of experimental film self portraits called, Floral Lovescapes II. I use different double exposure techniques and alter my film physically with liquid mixtures or an exacto knives to create different floral landscapes/“lovescapes” that I later rescan and wrap up in a psychedelic pink bow in Photoshop. This series is an homage to the Earth and documents my journey of reconnecting with myself and the world around me and I’m super excited to share it this upcoming Spring/Summer.

Mayra is excited to branch out to new communities with her photography. She will be featured in the RedRoom Gallery in Los Angeles, California. Join her January 6, 2023.

https://www.instagram.com/mayrarae/

[mayakshethra]

Discover Hidden Gems: Unforgettable Travel Experiences Await

In the age of mass tourism and social media, it’s easy to fall into the trap of visiting the same destinations everyone else is flocking to. While there’s nothing wrong with ticking off popular spots from your travel bucket list, there’s something truly magical about discovering hidden gems—those off-the-beaten-path locations that offer unique experiences and unforgettable memories. These are the places that haven’t yet been overrun by tourists, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoy breathtaking scenery, and have adventures that feel like your own personal secret. In this blog, we’ll explore why seeking out hidden gems can transform your travel experiences and how to find these treasures during your next trip best travel agency in kochi

The Magic of Hidden Gems

What makes hidden gems so special? For one, they offer an authentic experience that’s often missing in more touristy locations. When you visit a place that’s not on every traveler’s radar, you’re more likely to encounter locals who are genuinely interested in sharing their culture and stories with you. This interaction can deepen your understanding of the place you’re visiting, providing a richer and more meaningful experience.

Additionally, hidden gems often boast unspoiled beauty. Whether it’s a secluded beach, a pristine mountain trail, or a quaint village, these spots haven’t yet been affected by the pressures of mass tourism. The natural environment remains intact, and you can enjoy the scenery without the distractions of crowds, commercialization, or the noise that often comes with more popular destinations.

Finally, hidden gems offer a sense of adventure. Finding these places requires curiosity, a willingness to explore, and sometimes, stepping outside of your comfort zone. The journey to discover them can be as rewarding as the destination itself, adding an extra layer of excitement to your travels.

How to Find Hidden Gems

Uncovering hidden gems doesn’t always happen by chance; it often requires a bit of research and an adventurous spirit. Here are some tips to help you discover those special places:

Talk to Locals: One of the best ways to find hidden gems is by talking to the people who live in the area. Locals often have insider knowledge about places that aren’t widely known to tourists. Whether it’s a small café with the best coffee in town, a peaceful park, or a beautiful viewpoint, locals can point you in the right direction.

Use Alternative Travel Resources: While guidebooks and mainstream travel websites are useful, they tend to highlight the most popular destinations. Instead, look for blogs, forums, and social media accounts that focus on lesser-known spots. Websites like Atlas Obscura, for example, are dedicated to uncovering unusual and unique places around the world.

Be Flexible with Your Itinerary: Sometimes, the best discoveries happen when you’re not sticking to a strict schedule. Allow yourself some flexibility to explore unplanned stops along your route. If you hear about a place that sounds interesting, don’t hesitate to change your plans and check it out.

Avoid Peak Tourist Seasons: Traveling during off-peak times can help you avoid crowds and give you the chance to discover quieter, lesser-known places. Additionally, local residents are often more relaxed and willing to engage with travelers when they’re not overwhelmed by a high influx of visitors.

Take the Road Less Traveled: Literally and figuratively, taking the road less traveled can lead you to incredible discoveries. Instead of sticking to the main highways and well-trodden paths, explore backroads and less popular routes. You might stumble upon a charming village, a hidden waterfall, or a stunning landscape that you wouldn’t have found otherwise.

Stay in Smaller Accommodations: Big hotels and resorts tend to be located in the most touristy areas. Opt for smaller accommodations like boutique hotels, guesthouses, or even homestays. These places often have a more intimate atmosphere and are usually located in less commercialized parts of town, giving you better access to local hidden gems.

Examples of Hidden Gems Around the World

To inspire your next adventure, here are a few hidden gems from around the globe that offer unforgettable travel experiences:

Hallstatt, Austria: While Austria is famous for its alpine villages, Hallstatt is a small town that feels like it’s been plucked from a fairytale. Nestled between mountains and a lake, it’s less crowded than many other European destinations and offers stunning scenery, a rich history, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Siquijor, Philippines: This small island in the Philippines is often overshadowed by more famous destinations like Boracay or Palawan. However, Siquijor offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a sense of tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere. The island is also known for its mystical traditions, making it a fascinating place to explore.

Matera, Italy: Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, yet it remains relatively unknown compared to other Italian cities. The town is famous for its ancient cave dwellings, which have been carved into the rock over centuries. Exploring Matera feels like stepping back in time, and the city’s unique architecture and history make it a true hidden gem.

Huacachina, Peru: A tiny oasis in the middle of the Peruvian desert, Huacachina is a place of surreal beauty. Surrounded by massive sand dunes, this small village offers a peaceful retreat and thrilling activities like sandboarding and dune buggy rides. It’s a perfect example of a hidden gem that provides both adventure and relaxation.

Svaneti, Georgia: The remote region of Svaneti in Georgia’s Caucasus Mountains is a hidden gem for adventure travelers. Known for its medieval stone towers, picturesque villages, and stunning mountain landscapes, Svaneti offers incredible hiking opportunities and a chance to experience traditional Georgian culture in a setting that feels untouched by time.

The Rewards of Exploring the Unexplored

In a world where so much is already discovered and documented, finding hidden gems can feel like uncovering a treasure. These places offer more than just beautiful scenery or interesting activities—they provide a deeper connection to the places you visit and the people you meet along the way. They remind us that the world is still full of surprises, and that sometimes the best experiences are found in the most unexpected places. So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider veering off the beaten path. Seek out those hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. Not only will you have unforgettable travel experiences, but you’ll also be creating your own unique story—one that’s different from the thousands of other travel tales out there. After all, the best adventures are often the ones that aren’t in the guidebooks best travel agency in alappuzha

[whitemistdubai]

The Art of Pipe Tobacco: A Comprehensive Guide to Timeless Pleasure

Introduction: In a world where everything seems to be in constant flux, there's something comforting about traditions that withstand the test of time. One such tradition is the art of pipe smoking, an age-old practice that has been enjoyed by people from all walks of life for centuries. At the heart of this tradition lies pipe tobacco, a rich and aromatic blend that has captivated smokers for generations. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of pipe tobacco, exploring its history, varieties, and the timeless pleasure it brings to enthusiasts around the globe.

The History of Pipe Tobacco:

The origins of pipe smoking can be traced back thousands of years, with evidence of pipes dating as far back as 2000 BC.

Pipe tobacco gained popularity in Europe in the 16th century, with the introduction of tobacco from the New World.

Throughout history, pipe smoking has been associated with relaxation, contemplation, and socialization, with famous figures such as Albert Einstein and J.R.R. Tolkien known to be avid pipe enthusiasts.

The art of blending tobacco for pipe smoking evolved over time, leading to a wide variety of flavors and aromas.

Understanding Pipe Tobacco:

Pipe tobacco comes in a variety of blends, each offering a unique flavor profile and smoking experience.

The main types of pipe tobacco include Virginia, Burley, Perique, and Latakia, each with its own distinct characteristics.

Pipe tobacco can also be flavored with various additives such as cherry, vanilla, and whiskey, adding another layer of complexity to the smoking experience.

Different cuts of tobacco, such as ribbon, flake, and plug, offer unique smoking characteristics and experiences.

Choosing the Right Pipe:

Pipes come in a variety of materials, including briar, meerschaum, and corn cob, each offering its own unique smoking experience.

When choosing a pipe, it's important to consider factors such as size, shape, and style, as these can all affect the smoking experience.

Beginners may want to start with a simple corn cob pipe, which is affordable and easy to maintain, before graduating to more expensive options.

Pipe enthusiasts often develop a collection of pipes, each reserved for specific blends or occasions.

Packing and Smoking Your Pipe:

Packing a pipe properly is essential for a satisfying smoking experience. There are several packing methods to choose from, including the three-step method, the Frank method, and the gravity method.

Once your pipe is packed, it's time to light up and enjoy. Take slow, steady puffs to ensure an even burn, and remember to tamp down the tobacco periodically to keep it burning evenly.

Proper smoking technique, such as sipping the pipe rather than puffing aggressively, can enhance the flavor and prevent tongue bite.

Pipe Tobacco Etiquette:

Pipe smoking is steeped in tradition and etiquette, and there are a few key rules to keep in mind when enjoying your pipe in public.

Always ask permission before lighting up in someone else's home or car, and be mindful of your surroundings to avoid bothering non-smokers.

When smoking in a group, be sure to share your pipe with others and refrain from hogging the spotlight.

Proper disposal of ash and spent tobacco is also an important aspect of pipe smoking etiquette.

The Benefits of Pipe Smoking:

Pipe smoking is more than just a hobby; it's a ritual that offers numerous benefits for both the mind and body.

Many pipe enthusiasts find that smoking a pipe helps them relax and unwind after a long day, providing a moment of quiet contemplation in an otherwise hectic world.

Pipe smoking can also be a social activity, bringing people together to share stories, swap tips, and enjoy each other's company.

Some studies suggest that moderate pipe smoking may have health benefits, such as reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

Caring for Your Pipe:

Proper pipe maintenance is essential for ensuring a satisfying smoking experience and prolonging the life of your pipe.

After each smoke, it's important to clean out your pipe thoroughly to remove any leftover tobacco and residue.

Additionally, you should periodically inspect your pipe for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or burnout, and take steps to address any issues before they worsen.

Regular maintenance, including polishing the pipe and reaming out the bowl, will keep your pipe in top condition for years to come.

The Future of Pipe Tobacco:

While the popularity of pipe smoking has waned in recent decades, there is still a dedicated community of enthusiasts who continue to enjoy this timeless tradition.

Online forums, social media groups, and local pipe clubs provide opportunities for pipe enthusiasts to connect, share knowledge, and discover new blends.

The rise of artisanal tobacconists and small-batch tobacco blends has breathed new life into the world of pipe smoking, offering enthusiasts a wide variety of high-quality options to choose from.

Whether you're a seasoned pipe smoker or a curious newcomer, there's never been a better time to explore the world of pipe tobacco and experience the timeless pleasure it brings.

Conclusion: In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook the simple pleasures in life. But for those who take the time to slow down and enjoy the finer things, pipe smoking offers a timeless escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Whether you're a seasoned pipe enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there's never been a better time to explore the world of pipe tobacco. So why not pick up a pipe, pack it with your favorite blend, and take a moment to savor the rich, aromatic flavors of this ancient tradition?

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Reddit is a popular platform where users engage in discussions on various topics, including VPNs (Virtual Private Networks). VPN discussions on Reddit can provide valuable insights and information on VPN services, providers, security, privacy, and more.

Members of the Reddit community often share their experiences with different VPNs, review VPN services, and seek recommendations from fellow users. By participating in VPN discussions on Reddit, users can stay updated on the latest trends and developments in the VPN industry.

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Browsec VPN IP concealment

Title: Conceal Your IP with Browsec VPN: Ensuring Online Privacy and Security

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Browsec VPN IP obfuscation

Title: Unveiling the Power of Browsec VPN: IP Obfuscation Explained

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IP obfuscation is the process of masking one's real IP address with a different IP address, effectively hiding the user's identity and location. Browsec VPN employs this technique by rerouting the user's internet traffic through a secure server network, thereby replacing the original IP address with one from the VPN server.

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In conclusion, Browsec VPN's IP obfuscation feature is a powerful tool for safeguarding privacy, bypassing geo-restrictions, and enhancing security while browsing the web. By masking the user's real IP address and encrypting internet traffic, Browsec VPN provides users with peace of mind in an increasingly digital world.

Browsec VPN IP privacy

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[existentialmagazine]

Review: Maisyn shares a heartfelt new indie single ‘Night Talks’, encompassing easy-going sound with a romance that’s far from smooth sailing

Between past singles ‘Long Hair’ and ‘Naked’, the emerging indie artist Maisyn has found herself crafting a niche in indie that’s alike no one else, dancing between heartfelt sound and deeper meaning. Finding her place among artists like Clairo and Maggie Rogers, Maisyn’s works are familiar and yet distinctly her own, always offering both the light and the dark.

As she steps foot into 2024 with some new stories to tell, her newest single ‘Night Talks’ looks to resonate with those that seem to drift towards toxic and uncertain lovers, finding that familiar cycle of fighting and making up that’s hard to let go of. With the intimacy of the night becoming the stage where things unfold, Maisyn’s lines cannot help but feel like a destructive force that clashes with the peace, returning to bad habits in loneliness and perhaps a yearning for change: ‘why do I keep calling you up, when these night talks always draw blood.’ It’s hard to let go when you’re deep in your feels and Maisyn knows just how to clench onto your own aching heart with experiences of her own, but as her words paint an all too familiar picture, she’ll leave you questioning: is this really how it’s supposed to feel when you’re in love?

The sound is soft but bright to match, offering a palette of steady, mellow drums; gentle electric guitar strums and vocals soaked in a reverb that leave Maisyn’s lines lingering in the air to be remembered. Contrasting the lyrics with a sense of serenity, it’s almost as though this slither of ease is a representation of Maisyn herself, offering a respite from the chaos. But her delivery of the lines returns back to this more withheld regard, her words hanging with a careful emotional edge that shields from the inevitable blows, potentially a little defeated or simply tired of living out this same narrative one more time.

Keyboard keys cascade out post-chorus, a vibrant pop of colour to complement against the song’s melancholic air. Backing vocals also add a further layering, all together building in strength and volume as the clearly heightened emotions reach their inevitable climax. But it’s not quite what you’d expect, falling into a lulling stripped-back moment of simple guitar tones and Maisyn’s vocals at their most powerful moment yet, letting go of any reservations as the truth of the situation sinks in without hesitation: ‘try to prove to you that I’m in love, but it just cuts.’ This shift in lyric for the chorus is equally poignant in itself, finding a change in her thoughts through a journey of reflection that she takes you along for the ride of.

Adding some deeper thought, Maisyn shares “I never want to write sad songs for the sake of writing sad songs. My favorite thing to do is actually put a silver lining around a story. Basically, I’m the heroine and I want there to be at least one small moment of triumph, a little glimmer of hope. With “Night Talks” I feel like that hope comes in the chorus, when I question why I keep repeating self-destructive behavior. When you start asking questions like that, you can really start to change.”

Maisyn’s work always resonates most for her ability to relate to anyone and everyone, and ‘Night Talks’ is no exception to that. Between a sound you can easily get on your feet and loudly sing along to, is a message that’s much more personal and held near and dear, except she’s not afraid for the world to see her at her rawest. If you can find yourself seeing similarities through her words, or you’re just searching for an incredible indie upcomer with immense talent, look no further than Maisyn and her newest single ‘Night Talks’ you can listen to in full here.

Written by: Tatiana Whybrow

Photo Credits: Unknown

// This coverage was supported and created via Musosoup, #SustainableCurator.

[nmenvs3000w24]

Interpreting Nature's Canvas: My Visual Journey through Art, Interpretation, and Digital Narratives

“Natalie, put your phone down and enjoy the moment” is a phrase I've heard one too many times. As someone who has always been known to take pictures everywhere I go,  whether it's on a hike on a local trail or up on the Austrian Alps, you will always catch me trying to capture a unique and captivating picture. Personally, I feel that pictures have become today's contemporary form of artistic expression. Historically, before cameras were even invented they had alternative methods to capture a moment in time, which included drawing and painting. 

As I continue my journey through nature interpretation in this course, particularly through art, I can't help but connect the pictures that I capture on my phone to the timeless paintings of renowned artists. The unit on nature interpretation explains how art comes in many different forms and serves as a powerful medium to convey the beauty and essence of the natural world (Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.). 

For example, consider the painting of “The Group of Seven” discussed in this unit. Those who interpret this artwork get to experience how it captures the breathtaking landscape of Canada but also plays a role in shaping the symbolic identity of our country (Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.). Relating to the photos I capture, I am too adding a visual story of my experiences, just like the artists of the past did. 

When it comes to my personal nature interpretation, I find that taking a lot of photos comes from a fear of losing memories. As someone who has always had a hard time leaving my childhood and now teenhood, photos have been something important to help me through this transition. I love how every one of the photos I take has a story behind it and one of my favorite things is passing along these stories through photos and videos I share with others. Connecting to the question how do you interpret “the gift of beauty”? What makes this storytelling process so interesting is the variety of interpretations one image can bring to viewers (Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.). For example, take a look at this picture of a spider web I took this summer; for me, it brings up happy feelings as this picture reminds me of one of my favorite cottage trips I took this summer, and how this photo was taken by a campfire where many memories were made. However, this image and many others can be interpreted with very different feelings and experiences for someone else. This adds a layer of complexity to the question of how we interpret the “gift of beauty”. The beauty in a picture is more than just its aesthetic qualities; it's a multidimensional experience molded by individual perspectives, memories, and emotions (Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.). I now understand that sharing has become a collaborative experience, where viewers add their own interpretations to the evolving story of beauty and meaning.

Relating to this, the textbook reading focuses on the importance of interpretation in fostering democratic decision-making, assisting individuals in identifying with their land and culture, and offering an ethical sense of place, in addition to its role in delivering educational, recreational, and inspirational experiences (Beck, Cable, & Knudson, 2018). This perspective has allowed me to understand the impact and responsibilities that come with sharing digital interpretations of nature (Beck, Cable, & Knudson, 2018).

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage for a Better World (1st ed.). Sagamore Publishing. https://www.sagamorepub.com/products/interpreting-cultural-and-natural-heritage-better-world

Hooykaas, A. (n.d.). Unit 04: Nature Interpretation through Art and Planning for "All" Scenarios [Lecture notes]. ENVS3000 Nature Interpretation. University of Guelph.

[abhius]

Unearthing Hidden Gems: Unlocking Savings with Kinguin Discount Codes

Introduction:

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How to Harness the Magic:

Using Kinguin Discount Codes is a breeze, and it all begins with a simple search. Start by exploring the Kinguin website and selecting your desired game. Once you've added it to your cart, proceed to checkout. This is where the magic happens. Look for the option to apply for a discount code, and here's where you enter the coveted "Kinguin Discount Code." Watch as the price magically drops, allowing you to revel in the satisfaction of securing a fantastic deal.

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[snapghoul]

How many of us get a second chance?

(How many of us get to press rewind?)

✰ Paring: Johnny Cage/Kenshi Takahashi [mk1 versions]

The aftermath.

✰ tags&notes: description of injury, hurt/comfort, angst. Once again im a sucker for hurt.

✰ Part [1] [3]

– ⭑ –

Johnny sat slumped against a pillar of the Shaolin Temple; Liu Kang had returned everyone to their timelines once the other started crumbling, unfortunately not unharmed. His body felt sluggish and weak; his wound had stopped bleeding, but he had sustained more from the clash with Kenshi’s twisted double. One being a stab to the shoulder, the double had managed to get behind him and drive sento through his back. It was a fatal blow but enough to slow him down. In the end, it wasn't Johnny who killed the double; it was someone else who swooped in once they saw Johnny getting his ass handed to him. Was it Kitana? He couldn’t remember, only seeing them tackle the Kenshi off the side of the pyramid.

As Johnny lay there, wheezing and struggling to breathe, he couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. The distant sounds of celebration from the group of Outworld and Earthrealm warriors reached his ears, and while he was glad they were safe, a sense of isolation and abandonment gnawed at him. He wondered why no one had come to find him to ensure his well-being after the battle. Was he that forgettable?

Johnny forced the pity thoughts away, and his mind began to wander back to the intense battle with Kenshi's dark double. The memory of the pain and sorrow on the dark double's face during their confrontation weighed heavily on Johnny. He had seen a depth of emotion in that doppelganger that he never would have imagined. The knowledge that his double had died in that other timeline, leaving Kenshi to bear the weight of that loss alone, added another layer of heaviness to Johnny's already burdened heart. The pain that dark Kenshi must have been feeling seeing someone he loved so much stand before him, let alone fight him, was nothing compared to what Johnny was feeling now.

In the quiet depths of his heart, Johnny grappled with the complexities of love and its capacity to bring both joy and pain. He understood the depths of emotion that love could stir within a person, having experienced its highs and lows himself. Despite his tough exterior and playful demeanor, he knew the vulnerability that came with opening one's heart to another. as he lay there, his mind wandered to a hypothetical scenario – a timeline where his double and Kenshi's double could be together, where their love story could unfold without the constraints of fate and circumstance. In this imagined world, he envisioned a reality where they found happiness in each other, unburdened by the struggles and tragedies of their current existence.

In the midst of his own longing and pain, Johnny understood the importance of selflessness and sacrifice. He recognized Kenshi's mission and the deep sense of responsibility that drove him to protect and free his family from the Yakuza. It was a noble cause, one that Johnny respected and admired after Kenshi had shared his experiences and his family’s pain.

Yet, despite his understanding, the ache in his heart remained. He couldn't deny his own desires, his yearning for a love that seemed just out of reach. The conflict within him was palpable – the struggle between what he knew was right and his own selfish desires, a battle that many people faced when it came to matters of the heart. Even in the face of his unspoken longing, Johnny chose to honor Kenshi's mission and the choices that lay before them. He knew that sometimes, love meant letting go, even when every fiber of his being screamed to hold on. He allowed himself a moment of vulnerability, acknowledging his own selfish wishes, even as he accepted the reality of the situation.

Under the blanket of the night sky, with his heart burdened by unspoken words and unfulfilled desires, Johnny whispered his deepest hopes into the darkness. His wishes, like fragile butterflies, floated into the ether, carried away by the gentle breeze, destined to remain unheard by the one he longed for.

He wished for the doubles to find each other again, to rediscover the love that seemed to transcend time and space. He wished for Kenshi the strength to carry on his mission, to free his family from the clutches of the Yakuza, hoping that his friend would find the courage to face whatever challenges lay ahead. But amidst these selfless wishes, there was a selfish one, a desire he dared not voice aloud. Johnny yearned for the opportunity to tell Kenshi how deeply he loved him, to let those three words carry the weight of his emotions, unburdening his soul of the unspoken affection that had taken root within him.

In the profound stillness of the night, Johnny's most fervent wish echoed in the depths of his soul: he wished he wasn't dying. The weight of his mortality bore down on him, a relentless burden that overshadowed all other desires and dreams.

With every shallow breath, he clung to the flicker of hope that somehow, against all odds, he might find a way to defy the inevitable. He longed for a future where he could continue to live, to breathe, to love, and to experience the myriad wonders of life. The idea of leaving behind the world, his friends, and the possibility of a love that had stirred his heart made his impending departure all the more unbearable. Johnny's wish hung in the air, a poignant plea to the universe for a chance to continue his journey, to rewrite the ending that seemed so tragically predetermined. His eyes, filled with a mixture of fear and longing, stared into the vast expanse of the night sky, searching for a glimmer of hope among the stars.

As his wishes hung in the air, carried away by the wind, Johnny closed his eyes, allowing a single tear to escape, mingling with the night. In that moment of vulnerability, he found solace in the act of wishing, in the belief that somewhere, somehow, the universe might hear his pleas and grant him the miracles he so desperately sought.

“Johnny! Hey hey hey,” someone was touching his face; he could feel them moving his head. “Johnny, look at me! Open your fucking eyes, Johnny!”

In his hazy state, Johnny struggled to obey the urgent voice calling his name. His eyelids felt heavy, as though they were weighed down by the profound exhaustion that had enveloped him. The world around him seemed distorted, and the touch on his face felt distant as if he were submerged underwater. But the voice, so familiar and filled with desperation, cut through the fog in his mind. It was Kenshi, his friend, the one he had longed for, the one he had wished to tell how deeply he loved. Johnny summoned every ounce of strength left in him and willed his heavy eyelids to obey.

Slowly, his eyes fluttered open, revealing a glimpse of the worried face before him. It was Kenshi, his features etched with concern and relief. Johnny's heart swelled with a renewed sense of hope, and he managed to croak out a weak, "Kenshi..." The pain and weariness that had plagued him were still there, but the presence of his friend brought a glimmer of light to his fading world.

Kenshi's expression softened with immense relief as Johnny managed to utter his name. The worry that had etched lines on Kenshi's face seemed to ease, replaced by a profound sense of gratitude and reassurance. He gently cupped Johnny's cheek, his touch warm and comforting.

"Stay with me, Johnny," Kenshi urged, his voice filled with urgency and care. "You're going to be okay. We'll get you the help you need." His words were a lifeline, pulling Johnny back from the edge of unconsciousness. With a trembling hand, Johnny reached out and weakly grasped Kenshi's, holding onto it as if it were his anchor in the storm.

"I'm not going anywhere," Kenshi assured him, his voice steady and filled with determination.

Despite the sharp pains that shot through his body with every movement as he was lifted from his slumped position, Johnny clung to Kenshi's hand with a tenacity born from sheer determination. His exhaustion threatened to pull him into the depths of unconsciousness, but the thought of leaving Kenshi alone in the darkness was unbearable. His double's fate haunted him, the memory of the pain and sorrow in Kenshi's face etched into his mind. He refused to let history repeat itself. He wouldn't abandon his friend, his Kenshi, to the same fate. The strength of his resolve eclipsed the physical agony he felt, driving him to hold on, to stay conscious, and to fight against the encroaching darkness.

He knew whoever was carrying him was rushing to get him somewhere the monks could help him. His vision was blurry and the darkness of the night made it difficult for him to make out shapes. The pain and exhaustion finally overcame him, Johnny's grip on Kenshi's hand gradually weakened until his fingers slipped away. His consciousness ebbed away like a fading ember, leaving behind a fragile, battered body and a heart full of unspoken sentiments.

-✰-

Slowly, consciousness seeped back into Johnny's awareness, pulling him out of the depths of unconsciousness. His senses felt dulled, as if he were floating in a hazy void. Despite the numbness that enveloped him, there was one sensation that cut through the fog—the familiar, reassuring grip on his hand. He blinked his eyes open, his vision blurry at first, until the world came into focus. There, sitting beside him, was Kenshi, his expression a mixture of relief and concern. The tight grip on Johnny's hand spoke volumes, conveying a silent promise that he wasn't alone, that Kenshi was there, steadfast and unwavering.

In that vulnerable moment, driven by a surge of emotions too powerful to ignore, Johnny's actions spoke louder than words ever could. With a strength that belied his weakened state, he reached out and gently pulled Kenshi closer, his touch filled with a depth of affection that transcended the boundaries of friendship. Their lips met in a soft, tender kiss, a testament to the love and longing that had lingered unspoken between them. In that fleeting connection, Johnny poured all his emotions into the kiss—the depth of his feelings, the unspoken words, and the longing that had taken root in his heart.

Kenshi, taken aback by the unexpected gesture, hesitated for a moment before responding, his lips meeting Johnny's in a gentle, reciprocating kiss. It was a moment of raw emotion.

Their kiss lingered for a heartbeat, a stolen moment in the midst of chaos, before they pulled away, their gazes meeting in a shared understanding. No words were spoken, but in that silent exchange, they both knew that something irrevocable had shifted between them.

With a soft, heartfelt smile, Johnny whispered, "I love you," his voice filled with sincerity and affection. It was a confession that had been a long time coming, a declaration of the love that had been hidden but had finally found its voice. In response, Kenshi squeezed Johnny's hand, he let his other hand rest on Johnny’s cheek and he leaned forward and set his forehead against Johnny’s.

“I love you too.”