#because they're out there! in history and in our present! gems of the past and independent creators abound everywhere if you just know wher

[fenmere]

the entire show of steven universe takes place in the inworld of a system? i haven’t seen that theory before, could you elaborate on that? /gen

Sorry that we're not really in the state to infodump about this the way we usually can and really want to. But SU excites the shit out of us, and here's at least the barebones explanation:

The show is about the effects of trauma and how to address it. It covers generational trauma, and it even appears to address trauma related to colonialism and conquest, but it doesn't really model that last take from the perspective of the colonized very well. And that’s not just because it was written mostly by white people, though that’s a problem.

The reason it's plot is the way it is is because it's about the instigating event, the Diamond's mistreatment of Rose, and the ways that everyone (not just Rose) dealt with that for millennia afterward.

Right?

OK, so.

Start with the Crystal Gems. They live in a temple that looks like a person. And within that temple, they have their own rooms that work almost exactly like headspaces.

THEN, they are introduced to the audience as the group of beings going around and finding corrupted gems and bubbling them up and storing them in their rooms.

That's active dissociation of trauma holders.

When Steven goes in to one of their rooms to release a corrupted gem that he regrets bubbling, that gem goes and inadvertently releases a bunch of others.

That's an illustration of the hazards of poking around in dissociated memories. It can cause a cascading trigger.

That, right there, convinced us that at least the Crystal Gems represented a system. Combine that with Garnet being a fusion who loves being a fusion, but who can separate and reform, and we're dead convinced there was a system on the writing team, and that the central characters and themes of the show were written specifically for the benefit of systems with trauma, whether that's DID, OSDD, or CPTSD.

A lot of the messages can still apply to singlets, but they work best for systems.

Once you accept that, it's honestly hard not to see the entirety of the show's universe and history as the system itself. Especially with Steven's name, Universe, symbolically pointing to that perspective.

Most especially with how the show wraps up.

With corrupted gems being especially traumatized system members, you kind of logically have to look at all gems as part of the same system. At which point, you start to notice that all the gems are traumatized at least a little in ways that profoundly affect their behavior, including the Diamonds.

This raises the question of what the humans represent.

They could be introjects of people the system has met, the town they live in. But you don’t have to read it that literally. If the show is metaphorically about living in a system, the exact explanation isn't necessary. It's not canon, it's metaphor. Intentional and real, but not a fact of the story.

They could represent otherwise normal members. System members who would have existed as they are without the trauma that shaped the gems.

They could be dream people, the system members we all encounter in our dreams and mistake for NPCs.

They could be the members who aspire to be human, to be able to function when fronting in the outworld, and who are not caught up in being protectors (the Crystal Gems), persecutors (the Diamonds), or trauma holders (the corrupted gems), and the like (the other gems).

But whatever they represent, when Steven became able to fuse with Connie, it was obvious that the humans were really, fundamentally the same kind of beings as the gems, playing by the same rules of physics at a basic level. They're system members, too.

And when the show delved into their lives and showed the effects of the gems' antics, past and present, on them, that made it undeniable to us.

They're part of the system, too, and integral to everyone's future recovery, and part of the need for it.

[transport-uk]

Airport Taxis Warwick: A Journey with Airport Express and Taxis

Hey there, travel enthusiasts and wanderers of the world! Have you ever found yourself in Warwick, the heart of England, seeking the perfect ride from the airport? Well, let me spin you a tale about my experience with airport taxis in Warwick, particularly with the remarkable folks at Airport Express and Taxis.

Touchdown in Warwick

Picture this: You've just landed at the airport, your mind buzzing with excitement (or maybe it's just the jet lag). You grab your luggage, hustle through the crowd, and there you are – ready to dive into the historic charm of Warwick. But wait, you need a ride. Enter the scene: Airport Express and Taxis, the knights in shining armor (or should I say, shining vehicles) ready to whisk you away.

First Impressions Last

I'll tell you this - first impressions matter, and these guys nailed it. Their cab wasn't just a cab; it was like my first step into the welcoming arms of Warwick. Clean, comfortable, and with a driver who greeted me with a smile so warm, it could've melted the English rain.

More Than Just a Ride

Now, folks, this wasn't your run-of-the-mill silent taxi ride where you awkwardly gaze out the window. No, sir! The driver, let's call him John, was a fountain of knowledge. As we zipped through the streets, John regaled me with tales of Warwick's rich history, its hidden gems, and yes, the best local eateries (because, let's face it, food is life).

Why Opt for Airport taxis Warwick?

So, why am I singing praises for Airport Express and Taxis? Well, let me break it down:

Professionalism: They were punctual, polite, and professional. In the world of airport taxis in Warwick, these guys are the real deal.

Local Insight: John wasn't just a driver; he was like my personal tour guide. I arrived knowing more about Warwick than I had ever imagined.

Comfort & Convenience: Travel can be a hassle, but their comfy and well-equipped cab made it a breeze.

Warwick: Not Just a Stopover

Now, let's chat a bit about Warwick. It's not just a dot on the map; it's a treasure trove of history, with Warwick Castle standing tall as a testament to its past. And the people? As friendly and welcoming as John from Airport taxis Warwick.

That One Time...

Let me paint you a picture: there we were, stuck in a bit of traffic, but did that dampen our spirits? Not a chance! John started sharing anecdotes about Warwick's past and present, turning what could have been a dull delay into an enjoyable and educational experience.

It's the Little Things

You know what sets a great service apart? Attention to detail. Water bottles, phone chargers, and even a few local tips - they had it all. These small gestures made a world of difference, making my ride not just a journey but an experience.

Wrapping It Up

So, my fellow travelers, when you find yourself in Warwick, in need of a ride from the airport, remember Airport Express and Taxis. They're not just a taxi service; they're your first chapter in the Warwick adventure. Safe travels and may your journeys be as delightful as mine!

[fallout-lou-begas]

sorry for yet another question about fallout fanfic writing, but How much of fallout's lore can i change and throw away before it becomes me writing a original fiction story that is fallout in name only? I've always wanted to write fallout fanfic cuz i feel like Canon fallout is very lacking in chinese rep that isn't ex military related and it makes me feel like Fallout is saying that Chinese people will always be an other that needs to be integrated into the post apocaplyse american communites, as opposed to always being a part of america and surviving into the post apcaplyse. But it jsut seems to me like canon wise, the only option to fit chinese character in is either ghouls that are ex military, or like descendent of military deserters. I think aside from Little Yangtze, there's no other mention of any group of just Chinese americans in fallout. I know that if i want Chinese rep in fallout that isn't ex military, i need to make it myself, but i am also not too sure how much of fallout's lore i should mess with.

The honest answer is that you can change as much as you want, but it's going to be a personal decision whether it remains a Fallout fanfiction or not if you change it past the point of recognizability.

Everyone is allowed to enjoy something, and often fan media takes to the task of "fixing" things that are perceived as "broken" with the source media, from minor things like apparent plot holes to major things like improving its representation. To that end, you're allowed to change and throw away as much of Fallout's lore as you want. It's your story, you can do whatever (I've certainly done as much, with mostly minor but still fairly obvious changes to the lore and plot proceedings in @ikroah so far). People looking for "Fallout fanfiction" who come across your story will then personally decide for themselves whether your writing qualifies as such to them, but this can't be controlled any more than whether they like it or not can be controlled.

But to that end, it's your story. When I'm not on this website I'm making original art and fiction and I like to encourage people to do the same when possible. I'm not saying you need to drop everything and put out the next great hit novel, and ultimately your inclination to make original fiction is going to depend on how serious you'd like to take your writing and what appeals to you or not about fanfiction specifically (whether that's the pack-in nature of characters and settings that are ready to use to you, your interest in and desire to comment on the source material, or the communality of fanfic writing and reading communities). If it becomes so different that people looking for "Fallout fanfiction" are turned off, maybe it'll be so different that if you write it with that intention, it'll appeal instead to those looking for original post-apocalyptic sci-fi, especially from a Chinese perspective.

So if you're planning this out, and the need to correct every way that Fallout has failed Chinese(-American) people starts to feel like going through a not-so-bright child's essay with red pen, then just remember that it's a liability. You have the power to write your own post-apocalyptic story about whatever you want where Chinese characters are front and center, not grafted on in that way but there from the very core of the idea, not as bygone antagonists or afterthoughts but as main characters whose race, culture, language, and customs are integral parts of the narrative. If you find a solution to this problem within the confines of the Fallout setting and Fallout fandom, then that's wonderful for you. But if this is something that you continue to be worried about as you develop your idea, then just keep what I've said in mind.

[outoftownagain]

The best restaurants in Santorini, Greece

This, of course, isn't a definite list. We didn't even try a fraction of what the culinary world of Santorini has to offer and I am sure there are plenty of equally fantastic or better places. But by these 5 restaurants stood out for us and came recommended by other travelers and locals.

Hope you're not hungry!

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1. Μεταξύ Μας / Metaxi Mas 9FQ5+H2 Exo Gonia, Greece www.santorini-metaximas.gr

Metaxi Mas is a must whether you take a taxi, rent a four-wheeler, or simply walk from the charming village of Pyrgos. (We were advised very strongly against doing the latter by a very nice lady at a souvenir store: "It's not possible to walk, it's in the next village! But it is a wonderful restaurant, you must make it there regardless," she said. We did it anyway and it took about half an hour of walking downhill.) And just like pretty much everyone we spoke to about Metaxi Mas promised, it is absolutely amazing. You won't find your regular horiatiki and moussaka here, but by the time you make it here, you've most likely had enough of those and will be excited to take a quick break. You'll also have a change of view, because the cozy terrace is overlooking the airport and the less photographed side of the island, which may be slightly less iconic but gorgeous nonetheless. We started with Smoked Fish in a Chickpea Stew and the moment we tasted the dish, we knew that it would be the best meal on the island. We continued with Shrimp saganaki finished with ouzo, tomato sauce, fennel and feta cheese, which I will remember for a long time. And then, for a finale, a Spicy fried pork with Assyrtiko Santorini wine (which we were about to learn all about at a nearby winery, Santo Wines) with peppers, onion, garlic, Santorini cherry tomatoes, feta cheese and boukovo—red pepper flakes. Were we full? Of course. Did we want more? Absolutely! It was our last day on Santorini, so we knew we wouldn't have time to return to Metaxi Mas, so we asked our lovely waitress if she could suggest just one more, small dish, simply because everything was so delicious that we'd love another bite. She said that her favorite thing on the menu was Oven-baked asparagus with Cretan graviera cheese and estragon, and we thought that a little asparagus appetizer would be a perfect finishing touch to this feast. Little did we know that the "small dish" is in fact a huge plate filled with lots and lots of hot, melty, delicious cheese (with a little bit of asparagus buried deep under). It was way more than we wanted but way too delicious to leave behind and a taxi to take us to the wine tour at Santo Wines was already waiting. We might have burnt our mouths a little but we finished the asparagus and our wonderful waitress brought us a dessert packed to go because she knew we had to go. If you're in Santorini right now and looking for some delicious food, I couldn't be more jealous of you!

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2. To Psaraki Vlichada Marina, Vlichada 847 00, Greece www.topsaraki.gr

Near the southernmost tip of Santorini, at the end of Perivolos beach you'll find the charming Vlychada port. Arguably the best place to view it from (and definitely the most delicious one) is To Psaraki taverna. You'll have to drive or take a taxi there but the place is worth the trip. The actual restaurant is very nice but you really want to sit at the bright blue terrace across the street, which overlooks the port and the sea. Eating at To Psaraki feels like finding a hidden gem andt also like being on a Greek postcard at the same time.   The food is delicious and it starts from the very beginning—each table receives a bread basket and a portion of Santorini tomato paste with olive oil and oregano. (There is a tomato paste museum down the road, but it was still closed due to Covid when we visited.) We continued the feast with Fresh Greek mussels steamed with wine and spring onions (it's hard to imagine a more perfect dish to go with the view of sea and a distant smell of a seaport) after which a gorgeous Grilled Octopus arrived. Can't say that we were hungry anymore, but our main dish — fresh and homely amberjack was only about to be served. Accompanied by vegetables, tomatoes and a lemon, it was wonderful.

The restaurant overlooks the port and a short walkaway is Vlychada Beach with black sand, a beach bar and some amazing view of the cliffs, which makes it easy to spend a whole day in this small area.

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3.  Kokkalo 25is Martiou 25, Thira 847 00, Greece kokkalosantorini.com

We arrived in Santorini midday and after the initial shock caused by the overwhelming beauty of the view from the plane, then the taxi and finally from our suite, we were ready to eat. We picked Kokkalo purely because it was the closest recommended restaurant from our suite. It did take some climbing (everything in Santorini involves countless stairs and hills) and then a short walk along a busy, narrow street, but the place was 100% worth it.

We were greeted by a very friendly and quirky lady with a very particular sense of humor and a tray with 2 glasses of strong, local liquor. Day drinking it is! After hearing that we just arrived on the island, she was quick to recommend a local specialty—Santorini tomato fritters. "If you're going to have them, you need to have them here," she said, "we have cooking classes and we teach how to make them here." Tomato fritters are very tasty, but to be completely honest, it is one of those dishes that you try once and don't necessarily need to order again anytime soon.

We also got the Santorini Greek Salad and Chicken Souvlaki, which were both absolutely delicious and anyone could eat them every day for a long time. The presentation of the chicken deserves a special shoutout—it is definitely an attention-grabber when it arrives at the table.

Kokkalo is totally a great spot—it may not overlook the volcano, but staring into the flat side of Santorini with Anafi island in the distance is a pure pleasure! Mix that with great food, chilled wine and lovely service and you have a fantastic experience!

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4. Roka Mpotsari 6, Oía 847 02, Greece www.roka.gr

I'm not gonna lie, Roka was a bit of an accident (a great one though!) We hiked from Fira to Oia and we completely underestimated the time it would take us to complete the hike considering all the stops for wine, snacks, photos and views. They say that the hike takes from 3 to 6 hours and it did take us 6 hours (we're fast hikers but we stopped A LOT along the way to enjoy the views and wine) so when we finally got to Oia, we needed to eat before the sunset and most places were either booked or still closed because of Covid. We basically ran to check out Roka and it is semi-hidden in a maze of small, charming alleyways so we got a little lost trying to find it. We were greeted by a man who looked like he could be in a movie about a mafia-ran restaurant: white shirt and a tie, a sceptical gaze, a cigarette hanging from the corner of his mouth, and a brutal silence. He turned out to be our waiter and luckily he turned out to be very friendly, much contrary to our first impression of him.

We were seated at the small back patio lit by the setting sun and overlooking the sea and some less touristy parts of town and the island. The food was absolutely delicious yet presented in a slightly pretentious but cheesy way. It is not taverna food and obviously the chef is aspiring to a higher level of a dining experience. To start we were served rusk with olives and delicious tomato paste, which we learned was typical of Santorini, famous for its cherry tomatoes. Then we continued with ‘Imam Bayaldi’ with eggplant, shrimps, ’Oyzo’ glaze and chilli garlic mayo and Mushrooms Ragout on a sourdough bruschetta with caramelized onions, cream and gruyere sauce. Those two appetizers were quite Huge And Totally Satisfied Our Post-Hike Hunger, But We Had Two More Dishes Coming - Main Courses This Time.

Skioufikta - Traditional Greek Handmade Pasta with Caramelized Onion, Eggplant, Zucchini, Tomato and ’Xinoturi’ From Ios, which was light, delicate and delicious. The shape of pasta is a bit like cavatelli and is a perfect vessel for the summer flavors of this dish. Fresh Dorado Fillet came with fantastic Parsnip Puree, Braised Leek that melts in your mouth with Hazelnuts and was topped with long, thin crisps that gave it an additional texture. Satisfied and excited, we ran to the nearby Castle of Agios Nikolaos for a spectacular and unforgettable sunset.

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5. Naoussa Fira Santorini Next to the Central Orthodox Cathedral of Fira Town Mitropoleos Fira Town, Thira 847 00, Greece naoussasantorini.restaurant

When we arrived at this gigantic taverna, it was empty, with the only two guests eating at a table near the windows. We decided to sit at the other table with a view—right next to the couple finishing their dinner. It turned out to be a quite an unfortunate choice because those guests were an extreme example of a married couple who goes out to talk to other people in bars and restaurants. We spent the entire dinner listening about the wealth, success and amazing life of our co-diners, all the houses, apartments, businesses and countless trips all over the world were described in detail whether we wanted it or not. We also learned the history of their relationship including tidbits like: "Would you believe that after not seeing me for 2 weeks my husband chose to take me out to eat sushi instead of taking me to the bedroom straight from the airport?"

But back to the restaurant, the food was delicious and the sunset view (when we managed to look away from our interlocutors) quite terrific. We started with Dolmades, which are vine leaves stuffed with lemony rice and happen to be one of my favorite small dishes. The leaves are the best when they're delicate and not veiny, the rice needs to be moist and the entire thing is best served room temperature or slightly warm. So good! We also had a tuna salad with hard boiled eggs, which looked a bit like mess but was packed with unexpected flavor. We finished with a whole fish, which was absolutely perfect.

We did drink a lot of wine and we took our time eating, listening to the forced stories and admiring the sunset. At some point the initially empty dining room filled up completely and then it emptied again. It felt like we experienced the whole circle of sunset dining crowd.