#caos article

[marywardvvell]

Of all the characters, both magical and human, the most intriguing is the Season 1 villain, Lilith (Michelle Gomez). With a killer entrance (literally), the character is at the epicenter of the show's plot for most of the first season. But as time went on and the quality of the series began to dwindle, many of the supporting cast fell to the wayside, none more tragically than Lilith. Despite having been the show's most dangerous, humorous, and wickedly fun character, Lilith was forced to the sidelines far too quickly, and any redemption for the show's failing her sadly came too late.

[anime-academia]

Have people (women) throughout the ages consistently been damaging their hair to achieve beauty standards??

[anxiousarchitect]

The Spellman Mortuary (Light CC) - V.1

I did promised I would share this lot, didn't I ? Now then : the house is playable, but isn't 100% furnished and polished. I have many projects for this lot, but that involves more time than I currently have, so in the meantime I'm sharing with you this first version. Expect updates !

LOT INFORMATION :

Size : 50x40 Original location : Copperdale CC included with this lot : My Rêverie Macabre set, my John Bauer Set, and a few new creations I made for this lot. CC !NOT! included with this lot, and required : - Vintage phone by Around the Sims - Vintage sewing machine by Around the Sims - Grandma stairs by kirsicca - Jaipur fringed rugs by Brazenlotus - Solid colors candles by Brazenlotus - Pillow Galore Collection by simsi45 - Vintage gramophone by Lonelyboy - Buncha books by Magnolian Farewell - Single candle holder by plasticbox - Fanciful dome by Ruby Bird - Magic tomes and spell tomes by myshunosun - Simmify speaker and stack of LP by myshunosun - Lamps of many hats by Kris - Brick fireplace by silverhammersims - Scallop firescreen by mycupofcc - Skelly planter by Nolan-Sims - Tassle lamps, Botanical wall art by Anachrosims - Spring and sparrow double bed by faded-springs - Gently draping lace curtains by Peacemaker - Dark academia wall art by Sims4Luxury (sorry, just realized it was curseforge, feel free to pass on that one, i'll replace it asap) - OMSP Shelf by amoebae - Vampire lamps recolour by amoebae - Divinify tarot cards by MADLEN - Palm reader from the Drifter's Wonders set by Jools - Cottage windows by Severinka (a recolour is included in the lot file) Recommanded : Photographic memory by Ravasheen, if you want the polaroids in Sabrina's bedroom.

Future projects for this lot : finishing the furnishing, polishing everything up, making new CAOS CC, writing an article on this house, making a partnership with Lisa Soper (a girl can dream, right ?)

Download (SimFileShare, no ads)

[zhoudadudugongjin]

Still thinking about this article. all day everyday.

Since we can clearly identify when same-sex love appears in the historical texts, and we know that male love was accepted and normalised, it is not surprising to find in the Records of the Three Kingdoms that Cao Cao, along with other Han nobles of his time, had a sex life which included both men and women. Later translations of the Records understate the relationship between the two men, preferring – intentionally or mistakenly – to interpret it as platonic. Kong Gui is not mentioned at all in Cao Cao’s English language biography (Imperial Warlord: A Biography of Cao Cao 155-220 AD). Uncovering these relationships is therefore important, as without a nuanced history of sexuality our otherwise robust understanding of this time period becomes diluted.

[sophiebaek]

Asian Sophie fancast! ✨

I literally drafted this post a week ago and with the news of the potential Sophie casting call I feel like it was a sign to share my thoughts 😊

—————————

This is all for fun and as Sophie’s arrival seems to be getting closer and more inevitable, so here are some of my Sophie fancasts! As a SEA woman I would love to see representation in the Bton universe and have always pictured Sophie as Asian. [EDIT] With the assumed confirmation that Sophie will be East Asian I’ve included actresses that I love and have been fancast of mine for some time; these actresses are all East Asian (chosen before the casting call) but I also want to call to attention the lack of non-East Asian representation we see at this time. Fancast are at the end!

This is a good time to bring up what Asian representation even looks like since the continent is so big! I will be referencing this Variety article.

So we’ve seen that Asian representation has had a “significant increase of Asian characters from 3% to 16% over the course of 2007 to 2022” and while that seems like a step in the right direction it’s clear that the entirety of Asia is still not represented in media.

The release of 2018’s Crazy Rich Asians saw the increase of Asian stories and characters; but only “90% of the most visible of Asian characters on streaming platforms were a light or medium complexion”. Right now Asian representation is mainly centered around East Asians, and while any representation is good it’s important to be knowledgeable that not all Asian people are descended from that area.

There is a large disparity on how we view the term “Asian”. There are so many ethnicities that are beautiful and deserve representation. A larger representation needs to be seen within the Asian diaspora and also mindfulness to avoid common tropes and stereotypes is extremely important.

Any ways, here are some of my favorite fancasts I have right now! Conveniently all of these actresses are mixed race and with the obvious fact that Lady Cowper’s name is Araminta, it’s assumed Sophie is somehow related to them (which is a choice I do not agree with if now that Sophie is casted as a POC).

Natasha Liu Bordizzo (29)

Known for: Ashoka, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: Sword of Destiny, The Voyeurs

Ethnicity: Born in Australia, Chinese/Italian

Netflix connection: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: Sword of Destiny, Wish Dragon, The Society

Obviously Natasha is busy with her Star Wars projects but she’s been a longtime Sophie face claim for me!

Havana Rose Liu (26)

Known for: Bottoms

Ethnicity: Born in the USA, Chinese/White

Netflix connection: The Chair

The whole time I was watching BOTTOMS I was just so mesmerized by her beauty! She has this ethereal gracefulness that really makes me think of Sophie!

Adeline Rudolph (29)

Known for: Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Resident Evil

Ethnicity: Born in Hong Kong, Korean/German

Netflix connection: Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Resident Evil

Adeline always caught my attention in CAOS and I wanted to see more of her! She also has quite a bit of projects lined up rn but I’ve loved using her in some edits!

[allthecanadianpolitics]

Kamloops, B.C., city council has formally called on Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson to resign after a scathing report from a provincially appointed municipal adviser was made public on Tuesday.

[...]

It is particularly critical of Hamer-Jackson's behaviour toward council and city staff, saying that the mayor has shown "a dismissive and condescending attitude towards constructive criticism or the suggestion of apologies," and that his treatment of staff may have led to an unsafe work environment.

Hamer-Jackson's reign has been particularly eventful for the B.C. Interior city of around 100,000 people. It has seen multiple investigations, a defamation lawsuit filed by the mayor against a councillor, and the mayor suspending the city's acting CAO in a bid to "change things up."

Braun's Wednesday report could be a turning point, as it recommends the council consider creating financial sanctions for code of conduct violations in a bid to repair its dysfunctional nature.

It prompted an 8-1 vote by councillors calling on the mayor to resign — though the motion passed overwhelmingly, with Hamer-Jackson voting against, it is not legally binding.

Full article

Tagging: @newsfromstolenland

[accio-victuuri]

from this article by China Daily about Xiao Zhan’s drama WDB. 🤍

"The integrity, kindness and sense of justice that define Xiao Chunsheng harmonize seamlessly with Xiao Zhan's simplicity and sincerity. Moreover, in terms of appearance, Xiao Zhan's stature and posture perfectly suit the role,"

TV series taps into nostalgia of bygone era and the sense of optimism that captivated China's youth in 30 years.

As winter descends, the frozen Shichahai ice rink becomes a stage for young individuals gliding carefree across its surface. The profound contrast between the frigid ice and the passionate fervor of the young skaters creates a captivating tableau.

The youthfulness of this cohort finds its genesis in Shichahai, where their emotions and destinies will become intricately woven together. Over the next three decades, their fates will undergo a continuous metamorphosis, mirroring the relentless changing of the times.

This is the narrative that unfolds in the domestically produced drama The Youth Memories, a 38-episode television series that was broadcast on both China Central Television and Tencent Video this year.

Directed by Fu Ning and starring Xiao Zhan, Li Qin, Liu Ruilin, Cao Feiran, Zhao Xin and Cui Hang, the drama is set in Beijing in the 1970s and tells the story of a group of young people who grow up, pursue their dreams, and struggle during the early period of reform and opening-up.

This series has captivated attention since its casting and production to its on-air debut. The conscientious craftsmanship of the production team, evident in details like costumes and props, coupled with the dedicated performances of the group of young actors, has resulted in the show achieving both impressive viewership ratings and positive acclaim.

Yang Chenghu, a professor from Beijing Normal University, comments that the series not only provides a snapshot of a bygone era, but also preserves a love story etched deep within the memories of an older generation.

Through its vibrant portrayal of ambitious and dynamic young characters, it gives play to the anthem of youth, conveying profound reflections on the spirit of the times and the essence of life, Yang says.

Zhou Xiaoxiao, chief editor of the drama, says her goal is for the show to resonate with the memories of older generations, while simultaneously helping the younger generation comprehend an era where warmth and challenges coexisted.

"This isn't a documentary series, so it's impractical to comprehensively delve into every historical nuance. Nevertheless, the destinies and fluctuations of the characters undoubtedly stand as the era's most compelling testimony," she says.

"The Youth Memories serves as a poignant bridge in this regard. The personal growth that Xiao Chunsheng and his cohort of young individuals undergo throughout their journey resonates with the evolving times, encapsulating a condensed path of life."

Director Fu Ning has crafted numerous TV series that unfold in the heart of Beijing. Raised in the Beijing hutong, Fu maintained a profound connection to the core narrative and the atmospheric backdrop of the depicted era in this drama.

With a stringent approach, he ensured authenticity in shaping the essence of the story and the period ambiance, striving to present a genuine portrayal of 1970s Beijing through his lens.

Yang Xiaopei, general producer of the TV series, has served as the executive producer for several renowned dramas including Legend of Fuyao, Ancient Love Poetry and Who Rules The World. The Youth Memories marks her debut in the realm of realistic historical dramas.

According to Yang Xiaopei, this drama delves into discussions on themes such as love, friendship, dreams and faith through a youthful lens, with its creative exploration that touches upon every facet of characters' lives.

"I think the drama has the capacity to resonate with audiences across different age groups," Yang Xiaopei says.

As per Yang Xiaopei's explanation, the crew meticulously studied the daily habits of individuals living in Beijing during that period to capture authentic details in props, including practices like winter cabbage storage, burning coal balls, and the presence of street vendors selling sugarcoated hawthorn.

In terms of costume design, items like batwing sleeves, bell-bottom pants, scarves and headbands authentically recreate the ambiance of that era.

To recreate the Shichahai ice rink of the 1970s, the team crafted detailed blueprints, and ultimately enclosed an area exceeding 10,000 square meters.

Yang Xiaopei highlights the involvement of over 100 members from skating clubs who served as extras. As the machines operated, they glided naturally, infusing the entire scene with a profound sense of authenticity.

This was not just a leisurely pursuit or hobby but a genuine reflection of the lifestyle of Beijing residents during that era, she says.

Young actors' ambitions

The series unfolds over a span of 30 years, requiring each key actor to navigate three decades of character development. The main cast delivers a compelling performance that leaves the audience thoroughly satisfied.

During casting, Yang Xiaopei emphasized her willingness to provide opportunities for young actors, but she steadfastly avoided relying solely on popularity. She placed greater importance on the suitability of the role and the actor's genuine passion for the character.

Xiao Chunsheng's character is played by actor Xiao Zhan. Yang believes that Xiao Zhan shares commonalities with the role in both image and character.

"They both exude optimism, sincerity, uprightness and the courage to confront challenges. When combined with Xiao Zhan's profound understanding and portrayal of the character, he can be deemed the ideal choice to bring Xiao Chunsheng to life," Yang Xiaopei says.

"The integrity, kindness and sense of justice that define Xiao Chunsheng harmonize seamlessly with Xiao Zhan's simplicity and sincerity. Moreover, in terms of appearance, Xiao Zhan's stature and posture perfectly suit the role," Yang Xiaopei comments, adding that Xiao Zhan even sought out a teacher to learn the Beijing dialect.

Zhou acknowledges the outstanding performances delivered by the entire main cast. "Li Qin's portrayal of Tong Xiaomei also stands out. She is an exceptionally thoughtful actor, meticulously considering whether each plot point aligns with Tong's character, and whether it is within her capabilities to portray them." Zhou says.

"Of course, this extends to Liu Ruilin, Cao Feiran and the other young actors who, to my pleasant surprise, shone brightly. Everyone surpassed expectations, delivering performances that were truly exceptional."

Cao, 28, portrays the character of He Hongling, who shares numerous emotional scenes with Xiao Chunsheng in the drama.

Reflecting on the filming experience, Cao mentions that Xiao Zhan, with his extensive acting background, often provided valuable assistance on set. "If I did something well, he would point it out, enhancing my confidence in the process of shaping the character," she notes.

As both Cao and Xiao Zhan fully embraced their respective roles, spontaneous dialogue between them became a common occurrence on set.

Cao perceives He as a radiant, goal-driven individual with ambitions. However, influenced by her family background and the era's milieu, He is also a complex, self-interested individual living in the present, Cao adds.

In preparation for her role, Cao learned the violin and how to ice skate before joining the production. Additionally, she sought insights into the emotional experiences of individuals from that era by consulting her parents. "My parents mentioned that emotions during that time were relatively straightforward and pure."

Cui Hang, 34, delivers a compelling performance as Chen Hongjun, the close companion of Xiao Chunsheng. Successfully overcoming the challenges of the college entrance exams, Chen gains admission to university, and eventually becomes ensnared in the tumultuous currents of power, while ultimately landing in prison.

Before delving into this role, Cui took the time to thoroughly understand the character, charting the logical progression of changes in Chen's journey.

Throughout the series, Chen's glasses change three times, with each pair symbolizing a significant shift in identity, status and mindset.

From glasses mended with tape, to the pair gifted by Ye Fang so he could focus on preparing for the college entrance exams, to the gold-rimmed glasses worn after ascending in rank. Cui explains that the prop was chosen to signify changes in his character's social standing and mindset.

In the final office scene, Cui devised a meaningful gesture. He meticulously straightens the national emblem on his cap, wipes it clean, and then places the hat on the table, simultaneously removing his glasses.

"This is a farewell to his mistakes of the past," Cui explains.

Spanning 30 years, Chen's narrative presented a unique challenge for Cui, marking his first portrayal of a character with such a broad age range. Despite the inherent challenges, Cui found the experience immensely gratifying.

"The set design instantly transported us to an era half a century ago as soon as we arrived. The props, hats, scarves — everything belonged to that specific period. As actors, it was effortless to immerse ourselves in our roles," Cui says.

In the series, the character of Ye, Chen's wife in the drama, is brought to life by Beijing native Zhao Xin, who was profoundly captivated by Ye's personality when delving into the character's background.

"I find this girl incredibly intriguing. In that era, how could there be such an intelligent and clearheaded young lady? She is remarkably perceptive and forthright," Zhao says.

Ye earned the endearing nickname "prophet" from the audience, due to the character's accurate prediction of the reinstatement of the college entrance exam. Zhao believes that Ye's popularity is attributed to the fact that contemporary young women exhibit a strong sense of independence, and they can connect with Ye on a personal level.

"I've learned valuable lessons from the character. She possesses a profound pursuit of ideals and approaches situations with a highly rational mindset," she says.

[digitaldoeslmk]

Okay, I must ask about my favorite pig demons/yaoguai. Is Pigsy a reincarnation of Zhu Baije, a possible family member or just Zhu Baije under a new name?

I heard he had become a small god, not from the journey but still a minor deity but I am still very much learning when it comes to.

Basically what is going on with our chef and the once fellow brother pilgrim within your au? Especially cause I love it a lot even if just started posting it.

Pigsy is his own man, him and Sandy are more like thematic successors to Bajie and Wujing than anything else! i do like to think he has some ancestry with the Cao family tho uwu

he's very much MK's adoptive father along with Tang, they're an item in my au cus freenoodles is cute as hell. most of his arc is about how to cope with MK being in so much peril all the time, without turning into a helicopter parent xvx

he's also part of a thematic triangle about parenthood in my au. he's with Tang on the very caring and emotional but volatile corner, Wukong and the ascended pilgrims on the caring but very free range style parenting, and the Bull family with the deeply attached but stern and tough love corner. there are others of course, like the Long family and the dragons, and Guanyin herself, but they are the main ones i'm focusing on cus i wanna delve into how Red Son and MK handle being caught in the middle of those three.

and that is quite true, Zhu Bajie is a god of prostitutes in Taiwan in our own world!! you can read some about it over at @journeytothewestresearch's article, he's a great guy and a great source of info surrounding JTTW and his blog is def worth checking out if you haven't already!

[typhlonectes]

A new species of Paracortina from a Vietnamese cave, with remarkable secondary sexual characters in males (Callipodida, Paracortinidae)

Anh D. Nguyen, Pavel Stoev, Lien T. P. Nguyen, Tam T. Vu

Abstract

A new millipede species, Paracortina kyrang sp. nov., is described from a cave in Cao Bang Province, northern Vietnam. 

The new species is diagnosed by having an extraordinarily long projection on the head of males, reduced eyes, a gonocoxite with two processes, a long and slender gonotelopodite with two long, clavate prefemoroidal processes densely covered with long macrosetae apically, and with a distal, reverse, short spine on mesal side, and a rather sinuous distal part of the telopodite. 

This is the third species of the genus that is known from Vietnam. A brief comparison of some secondary sexual characters is made.

Read the paper here:

https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/99651/

[bpod-bpod]

Beyond the Brain

Deposits of amyloid β – the plaque-forming protein found in the brain's of patients with Alzheimer's disease – discovered in the glymphatic system ( the central nervous system's waste-clearance pathway) and travelling along the optic nerve from the brain to the eye causing retinal degeneration

Read the published research article here

Image from work by Qiuchen Cao and colleagues

Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China

Image originally published with a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

Published in Journal of Experimental Medicine, September 2024

You can also follow BPoD on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

[exploravietnam63]

Hoi An travel guide: Exploring beyond the ancient town

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a charming town in Vietnam that captivates visitors with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its picturesque countryside to its vibrant food scene and tranquil beaches, Hoi An offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Whether you're cycling through lush villages, enjoying water activities, indulging in local delicacies, relaxing on pristine beaches, or exploring historical landmarks, Hoi An travel guide promises an unforgettable journey. Dive into the enchanting world of Hoi An and discover the top things to do in this captivating destination.

Hoi An travel guide in the article below 

1. Hoi An memories show

One of the most unique experiences in Hoi An is the Hoi An Memories Show. This spectacular outdoor performance takes place on a massive stage and transports the audience on a journey through time, recreating the golden memories of the ancient town. With a combination of music, lights, and captivating artistic performances, Hoi An Memories Show will leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Ky Uc Hoi An is the most worth-watching show in Vietnam

2. Exploring Hoi An's countryside

Hoi An's countryside is a serene escape from the bustling town center. Rent a bicycle and traverse the picturesque paths through Cam Thanh and Cam Chau. Discover the lush Tra Que vegetable village, where you can witness traditional farming practices. As you cycle, enjoy the scenic views of rice paddies and local life. This journey, highlighted in any comprehensive Hoi An travel guide, offers a glimpse into the tranquil and authentic rural Vietnamese lifestyle, far from the tourist crowds.

 

Hoi An's countryside is a serene escape from the bustling town center 

3. Water activities

Hoi An travel guide a variety of water-based activities that are perfect for adventure seekers. Embark on a sunset cruise along the Thu Bon River to soak in the breathtaking views and the serene ambiance. For a more active experience, try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking. These activities provide a unique perspective of Hoi An's waterways, allowing you to explore hidden spots and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

4. Food and café culture

Hoi An is a food lover's paradise, renowned for its delectable local cuisine. Begin your culinary journey with a visit to the vibrant local markets. Don't miss out on tasting iconic dishes like Cao Lầu, a noodle dish with a rich history, and Bánh Mì, the famous Vietnamese sandwich. The town is also dotted with charming cafes, perfect for a leisurely break. Enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee while watching the world go by, and indulge in the town's laid-back café culture.

Cuisine in Hoi An is extremely diverse

5. Beaches and relaxation

For a day of relaxation, head to An Bang Beach, located just a short distance from Hoi An's center. This beautiful beach offers pristine sands and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming. Explore the beachfront restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and refreshing drinks. For a quieter experience, find a secluded spot and unwind while listening to the gentle waves.

One of the highlights of An Bang Beach is its beachfront restaurants and bars. These establishments offer a variety of dining options, from freshly caught seafood dishes to international cuisines and local specialties. Enjoying a meal with a view of the sea and a cool ocean breeze adds to the overall relaxing experience.

An Bang beach

6. Cultural and historical experiences

Hoi An's rich history and culture are best experienced through its well-preserved ancient town. Take a leisurely stroll through the lantern-lit streets at night, a magical experience that transports you back in time. Visit the iconic Japanese Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An, and explore the historical Tan Ky House. These sites offer a deep dive into the town's past, showcasing the blend of cultures that have influenced Hoi An over the centuries.

Conclusion

Hoi An is a destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, adventure, and relaxation. From the peaceful countryside and exciting water activities to the rich culinary scene and serene beaches, there is something for everyone in this enchanting town. Exploring its cultural and historical sites provides a deeper understanding of its heritage and charm. As you plan your visit, use this Hoi An travel guide to prepare for a captivating journey. Discover Hoi An, and let its magic unfold before you, making memories that will last a lifetime.

[brightquang]

FULL SPEECH: Trump and Hung Cao visit Vietnamese community in Virginia.

As we, the American people and super sublime American community standards, remember the Vietnam War which included General attorney's Robert Kennedy came to Vietnam and he declared, " South Vietnam must win against international communists." In the meanwhile, the US Congress enacted H.R. 7885 Pub. L. Approved December 16, 1963, after President Kennedy had ordered to assassinate Ngo Dinh Diem on November 1, 1963. Which is why Act's H.R. 7885 has not ratified yet by the Congress of Vietnam because the United States has not only respected sovereign Vietnam but also had endorsed the right to self-determination of the Vietnamese people which is why the Act's 7885 has just enacted 16 December 1963, 11: am so President Kennedy quickly sent his American Armed Forces to Vietnam.In addition to the 22 Chapter Foreign Claims Act  which the Department of Justice requests for anyone who claims to be a prisoner of war, they must register before two years. On the other hand, Article Third of the US Constitution had been approved by sovereign foreign nations- and therefore, the American Ambassadors have the right to sign bilateral treaties with foreign nations. That is why the American Ambassadors have self-torn all bilateral treaties to contort the US Constitution without having sentenced crime fraudulently. Bright Quang

[psychologeek]

is your cass 3 years old? genuine question bc she has never sounded like that, she struggles with complex words and long sentences but she doesn't baby talk or get words wrong like that

I assume you mean in this post

First of all - thanks for asking! Feel free to ask any other questions here or a comment on fic.

Second - No, my Cass isn't 3 yo.

I'm talking about Cass from my fanfic (the first chapter has an extended version for clarification, as I understand pre-verbal communication is heard to understand).

Psychology, Language, and development

Cass was raised as a weapon, and wasn't allowed to speak as a child¹ - wich had a massive impact on the way her thinking and communication has developed².

She was also isolated, and only learned the concept of language at the age of ~8/9³ (with Jason). First by using signs⁴ (ASL, spesificly), and later starting speech - though she STILL struggles with pronunciations⁵.

According to canon, when she was about (17? 18?), a fight with a magical/alien made her "understand language".

But I take canon and think about the implications. I especially consider it as Cass is a very visual/kinetic thinker. She think in pictures and movements.

What adding words for this would do? And what "understanding language" even means?

My personal answer to that, was "sort of an auto-reader you can't turn off", and a LOT of overstimulation. Because it's too much.

This doesn't change much. It DOES mean Cass need to take time off, to understand what happened. It's also not a good thing.

(This isn't a magical fix-it, and I made sure to make it very clear it has serious issues, most importantly Cass didn't want/needed a "cure", as they aren't broken. There's nothing to fix.)

Cass still prefer using non-verbal communication, like AAC app, emojis, Jestas, ASL, body language, etc.

And the family is. Mostly okay with it.

Also, Cass is autistic. Like me. And some of this experience is based on my personal experience. For example, sometimes I struggle with speaking. I have sensory issues. My thinking is very visual. When I'm overwhelmed, I need small and simple sentences.

I hope that it helps 🤠

~

1. Can be seen in chapter 1 ("A weapon"). This part was inspired/research by comparing to articles and development of children who grew up in extreme abuse and neglect (for example, "Jenny").

2. For example, self-identifing as a weapon (not a person). Understanding few words (come, stay) but not being able to speak, or understand speech. Think about the way dogs may understand some commands/words, but not a fairytale. Let me be clear - this refers to any kind of organised language, including verbal, signed, other kind of visual, tactile, etc. The issue here isn't the "not learn to speak". Many CoDA grow up perfectly fine and healthy and well. The issue here is the lack of any way to make sense of her caos.

3. Not growing up with language means that her experience and personal narrative are. Not sorted that way. A series of incoherent photos and scents. This was partly inspired by (I study psychology, I focus on trauma, there's. A lot.) and Helen Keller's story. Even before Anne, she had home signs and was able to partly communicate with some people. But she was hearing until 19 months, and therefore had 19 months of language (including several spoken words).

4. This part in the fic was inspired, again, by Helen Keller. Especially her description of what it was like to understand there's such thing as language:

I stood still, my whole attention fixed upon the motions of her fingers. Suddenly I felt a misty consciousness as of something forgotten—a thrill of returning thought; and somehow the mystery of language was revealed to me. I knew then that w-a-t-e-r meant the wonderful cool something that was flowing over my hand. The living word awakened my soul, gave it light, hope, set it free!

(from Keller's autobiography "The Story of My Life")

(Also Jason's "food is love language". Something about sharing when you have little. Something about kindness and trust.)

5. Speech is hard. Like, there's a REASON so many ppl need speech therapy. Speech patterns ("native language", grammar) are all getting set by the age of 7. Do you speak another language? How old were you when you learned it? How close it is to your first language? How well do you speak it?

[the-archlich]

Do you think you've about exhausted things to talk about with respect to the 3 Kingdoms era?

Not at all.

This got very out of hand but I'm going to leave it as is.

Oh, sure, some subjects have been beaten to death. There's only so much you can say about the particular events that have been told and retold in folktales, opera, novels, and (in the modern age) movies, TV shows, and video games for the last 1800 years. There isn't a lot left to say about the most famous battles and individuals that hasn't been said already.

There's also a lot that is still relatively overlooked, outside of very specific circles. People who didn't get prominent roles in fictionalizations of the period are still pretty obscure. Events that aren't depicted in stories and adaptations don't get much discussion. That's the sort of thing I try to write about, like with my articles on the Crown Prince Affair (Part I | Part II) or my series on Yuan Shao and Gongsun Zan.

But the things I write about are just one very limited facet of the period's history. There's so much more to be said. The stuff I write about is probably the least meaningful. Ultimately it doesn't make much difference who won what battle or what faction took over a government. Individuals varied but all the governments of the time were fundamentally the same. No matter who took power in what region, it was going to be a Han style government, dominated by Han culture. Nothing meaningful was going to change, no matter which of our well-known warlords won. Their battles were largely irrelevant. There's a reason nothing meaningful changed in Shu when it was conquered by Wei, or Wu when conquered by Jin. There's a reason the Sima regime was only superficially different from that of the Cao, and why it really doesn't matter if, say, the Quan family had seized the throne of Wu. Despite individual differences they were all fundamentally the same.

To see what I mean, we don't have to look very far into the future. The collapse of western Jin meant the rise of non-Han polities in significant areas of the former Han/Jin empire. The governments of the Xiongnu, the Xianbei, and and other groups from outside of the Han culture were meaningfully different. Prolonged chaos in the northern portions of the empire resulted in mass movement to the south, into areas previously claimed by the Han people only in name but not in fact. The efforts of Wu and Shu (largely due to He Qi and Ma Zhong) to establish firm control over these regions laid the groundwork for the "sinicization" of southern China, but it was really only with the collapse of Western Jin that the new status quo was established. At the same time, we can also observe the so-called "barbarians" adopting many elements of Han culture to help them rule their new empires.

You could spend your whole career studying something like that.

You could analyze the literature of the period and compare different style and composition across different years and regions. You could dig deep into the economics and study things like government monopolies on key industries, and contrast the different approaches taken by the various rulers of the era. You could study all the material left by civilians who had no part in the "great affairs" of the time. You could study how infrastructure projects meant to support warfare (like the many canals Wei dug) impacted trade and travel for others. You could study the visual arts; paintings, sculptures, miniatures, etc. And all of that gets much more complicated and interesting when you reach beyond the Han culture, into the areas and eras where non-Han influences achieved supremacy and influenced the existing culture.

The era produced some of China's most influential figures whose contributions are far more meaningful than the battles fought by its various generals. Zhong Yao's calligraphy was so influential that we still imitate his writing today. Pei Xiu was one of the most important cartographers in China's extensive history. Hua Tuo's scientific approach to medicine was revolutionary in its time. Du Kui and Xun Xu made extraordinary contributions to music. There are so many others to speak of.

Sociology. Visual arts. Performing arts. Economics. Mathematics. Literature. Technology. The list goes on and on and on. There is absolutely no shortage of new things to study and talk about. A very accessible example is the deep dive @discourseofthethreekingdoms did on the theology of the Yellow Turbans. I don't think I've ever heard that much said about them anywhere. It was a significant and meaningful look at the actual beliefs and ideology of a group usually just dismissed as rebellious malcontents deceived by charismatic opportunists.

Now, none of that is what I generally write about. A big part of that is because that's serious academic work. It's hard, it's complicated, and it requires both resources and training I don't have to get it right. I'm not any kind of real academic. There are people doing this work, and because it doesn't have mass appeal they don't get the kind of credit they deserve, but that's the kind of work that actually matters. People like to read about wars and battles and politics and don't give the same attention to these much more serious and meaningful subjects. It's a damn shame, really, and I can only hope that the ones doing the important work at least receive the respect of their peers.

And if I'm being fully honest, even if I did have the training and resources it takes to do the important work, that's not where my passion is.

I'm a storyteller.

I'm fascinated by these people and their lives. When I get invested in a particular historical era, it's because I find it to be filled with a wide variety of very interesting individuals whose stories I love, and whose stories I want to try to share with others. I like to tell the stories I think don't get told enough; or that get so obscured by fictionalization that the real people involved become unrecognizable. That does end up with me writing about a lot of battles and politicking, because that's where we get a lot of these stories from. When I believe a story is left untold (like with the Crown Prince Affair) I want to tell it. When I believe that a story is being misrepresented, I want to try and correct it. The reason I get so passionate about "history vs. fiction" is because these people were real. Their accomplishments and failures were real. Their triumphs and tragedies were real. Every single name you see was a full human being exactly as complex as you are; and so is every single anonymous soldier and civilian killed in their pointless wars.

Some of these stories have been told and retold so many times that there's nothing interesting left to say. But there are so many others that remain in relative obscurity, and ones where the truth has become obscured over time. That's mostly what I spend my time writing about now.

[georgiapeach30513]

I believe that there people in the fandom That love to create caos. It can be because of an article, a picture, hell they even do it because of likes and follows.

They create caos and then, proceed to blame others. I mean, there are fans that are still sort of mad and dissapointed but still support his works, I believe its called seeing your favorite being a flaw human.

But there are others who constantly used their plataforms to "inform" you something, and then create madness. And later, pretend they did not did in fact anything at all.

I am glad the series and PH did well, the actors involved in it are very loved by the audiences as well.

Why create chaos and pandemonium when there’s enough of that in the world? Listen, I have said for awhile now to you guys that Chris is a human. He is flawed and imperfect just like the rest of us. He’s going to make mistakes. He’s going to disappoint. He’s going to be lazy sometimes, and just want to get away sometimes. It’s why I say fictional men are superior because they’re not real and bound by the laws of human nature.

You choose who you follow and what information that you absorb. If there’s people that cause that chaos and anxiety in you because they themselves are anxious and chaotic, don’t give them the platform they crave. It’s what I’ve said about this mess, stop giving people free press and making them bigger than they deserve.

[the-monkey-ruler]

On Ao Lie's page of the LMK wiki, it says that Ao Lie's name is from a TV drama called Journey to the West Epilogue, but the link to a supposed wikipedia page for it takes users to page saying there isn't an article with that name. Do you have any information about it?

Sure! Bailong's name is a creation that is very recent, only being about 20 years in use and there are other media has given him other names other than Ao Lie, such as Ao Xue from the Westward comic from 2015.

The name Ao Lie comes from the 2000 tv series 西游记后传 or Journey to the West Sequel.

I actually covered the tv series here as well!

But this series did have Bailong with a far more prominent role as it was right after the journey and the gang has to get back together to save the world and such with Bailong allowed to be in his human form rather than being the steed.

I haven't seen the series myself but from what I can tell it is very fast pace and has a lot of different elements while still trying to keep the core cast the same loveable dynamics that draw people in the first place.

I'm sure that more media could have different names for him but I have seen a lot of media references often using the name Ao Lie as well like Fei Ren Zai from 2015, Little White Dragon Struggles from 2021, White Dragon Horse Love Story from 2022, White Dragon Horse from 2020, and so on!

Ao Lie...

Ao Xue...

All Bailong Ma!!

I'm sure there is other media that have Bailong Ma but I'm not sure if they gave him a name as a lot of Xiyouji just call him what he is called in the book. His older brother and sister are given names, even some of his cousins but Bailong Ma has not been given a name of his own within the novel, just this title as the Dragon Prince.