#chess oct

[tximista-rissole]

ive been brain rotting real bad about a man with a funny hat lately

(this is my own character, i made him for an upcoming chess themed oct! very happy how this turned out)

[herbpotwo]

[rat-on-string]

reworking some old concepts! i first designed this skin bishop and the blood horse A While Back but im only now coming around to do something with the concepts.

^my old designs for the Skishop (skinbishop) and the Blorse. (bloodhorse)

[kiaryn-ledgem]

[janus-jekyll-art]

Weird thing I did for a school assignment last year. We had to make an object on adobe illustrator and fill it with 50 patterns. I was sick of using the computer mouse so I did it on my iPad with my finger instead. Adobe Illustrator is not designed to be used like this. It made my device super hot. I tried to recreate this in a physical medium recently and I more or less succeeded.

[mightbeimpossiblenotto]

House - Oct 12 - @rosekillermicrofic - 1,950 words - Warnings: mild homophobia from character’s father, biting again

(a/n - this one is too long again, but it needed some world building)

Evan met Barty when he was just seven years old. His parents had taken him to some pureblood gathering for the adults, leaving the children to themselves in another room. Some of the other kids already knew each other from previous events, and they formed little groups, of which Evan had no desire to be a part. There was one sullen looking boy standing against one of the walls, glaring at everyone else with hazel eyes. His hair was a messy mop of dark brown, his skin pale and clear. Evan approached him.

“I’m Evan Rosier,” he greeted, in the way he had been taught to introduce himself, sticking a hand out to shake.

Barty stared at his hand with disdain. “Barty.”

Oh, Evan had heard that name before. “Crouch’s son?”

Barty’s face went abruptly dark as he straightened up against the wall. Evan took his hand back as it seemed Barty had no intentions of shaking it, awkwardly putting it back in his pocket.

“Don’t ever mention my father to me,” he spat. Evan didn’t flinch, he just raised one eyebrow at the other boy until Barty softened. “We don’t exactly get along.”

“I don’t get along with my father, either,” Evan offered, though he knew he didn’t mean it in the same way that Barty must mean. Evan’s father was a stony man; he didn’t show affection or any other emotion, and he didn’t show his love in any traditional methods, if at all. For much of his life, Evan considered his father on the outside of their small family: him, Pandora, and their mother had a very close relationship, and then there was their father on the outside, looking in but not participating. It seemed that Barty’s relationship with his father was even worse than apathetic.

But Barty seemed comforted by Evan’s commiseration. His face relaxed, and he stopped leaning against the wall. By the end of the evening, Barty and Evan had played several games of chess and exploding snap.

And I’ve been meaning to tell you

I think your house is haunted

Your dad is always mad and that must be why

They became good friends, Evan and Barty. They started seeing each other at more pureblood social events, and they each ignored every other child present, only playing with one another. By the time it was time to go to Hogwarts, Evan was excited about the prospect of seeing his friend every day, perhaps even living in the same dorm as him.

Barty was thrilled when he got on the train. He was nearly bouncing out of his seat with excitement. They shared a train car with Evan’s sister Pandora and a friend of hers, Dorcas. A third boy named Regulus wandered in at some point, his carefully bored expression trying to mask some anxiety at having to search for an open compartment. Barty invited him in immediately.

It wasn’t until far later that night, after the sorting hat ceremony and the welcoming feast, after Regulus, Evan and Barty had all been sorted into Slytherin and found out they were going to be sharing a dorm room together, that Barty’s good mood finally broke. Regulus had gone to sleep, an unnatural silence surrounding his bed curtains after he had pulled them shut (he must already know how to do silencing charms).

Evan was sitting up in bed reading a book, and Barty had been unpacking his trunk, showing Evan every little thing he had brought from home. After a while, Barty had gone quiet, and Evan realized he was able to finish a whole chapter without Barty interrupting. He looked up, only to find Barty staring at the wall, eyes unseeing, as tears streamed unhindered down his cheeks.

“Barty!” Evan whisper-shouted, shocked. He hurried out of bed to crouch next to his friend, but when Barty didn’t move at all, Evan changed tactics and sat next to him. Their backs were leaning against Barty’s bed as they stared at the stone walls that made up their dungeon dorm room. Evan waited for Barty to speak first.

“I’ve never spent a night away from home,” Barty finally whispered, which wasn’t what Evan had expected him to say at all. He was confused — Barty always complained about being at home, being near his father, so Evan expected him to love being away at Hogwarts. He waited for further explanation, and Barty quickly gave it. “I’m so… relieved.”

His voice broke, and then Barty was sobbing, and Evan pulled him as close as he could while he cried.

And I think you should come live with me

And we can be pirates

After several years at Hogwarts, Evan grew used to Barty’s confusing relationship with his family. He returned home for every holiday, never missing a single chance to leave. He professed how much he loved Hogwarts, how much he hated to leave, especially when Evan or Regulus were staying behind for a holiday. It took Evan until fourth year to realize the reason Barty always went back was for his mum.

He never spoke about her. He complained about his father on a daily basis; he repeated every terrible thing his father had ever put in his head, much to the displeasure of Evan, who felt it was his personal duty to prove Barty’s father wrong. But Barty never mentioned his mum.

Evan had asked Barty to come to his house for Christmas in fourth year. After three years of watching his friend come back from the Christmas holiday looking miserable and emotionally beaten down by his father, Evan had had enough. A week before they were all supposed to board the train back to London, Evan broached the subject with Barty.

“Why don’t you ever come to mine for holiday?” Evan asked. “If being at home makes you so miserable, that is.” He had been listening to Barty complain for close to three hours at that point.

“Can’t,” Barty said simply. “I have to see mum.”

Evan hadn’t ever asked again.

Then you won’t have to cry

Or hide in the closet

When Barty came back for sixth year, he was different. Evan couldn’t explain what it was to anyone else, but it was entirely obvious to him. Something fundamental had changed Barty in some way, and Evan felt entitled to that information. Barty walked onto the train with a different swagger to his step, a different attitude behind his words, a different emotion behind his eyes. It was as if he had a mask on for everyone else, but Evan could see right through it, and he hated the fact that he was the only one who could see it.

To make matters worse, Barty was avoiding Evan and their group of friends, never spending any time in the dorm or even the common room. He was usually hooking up with some girl, stumbling into the dorm early the next morning, looking disheveled and depressed. Evan couldn’t understand it. Barty had never shown interest in girls before, despite other boys in their year having started ages ago. Evan found comfort in this fact, as he had never had any interest in the other sex, and he was beginning to realize he never would. Except Barty had come back and, very suddenly, girls were all he could or would think about.

Evan’s patience quickly wore thin, and he confronted Barty one day on his return to the dorm. Evan had been waiting for him, fuming, because he hadn’t spent any time with Barty at all in weeks. As soon as Barty walked through the door, Evan practically pounced.

“Just what the hell do you think you’re doing, Bartemius Crouch, Jr.?” Evan spat, backing Barty against the door he had just closed behind him.

“Um,” Barty fumbled ineloquently. “Getting dressed, I hope? These clothes are from last night.”

“I know,” Evan hissed. “You’re never fucking here anymore. Why are you never here?”

He watched Barty swallow thickly, his throat bobbing. “I’m here, I live here, Evan—“

“You haven’t slept here since we’ve been back,” Evan insisted. “Tell me what the fuck is going on.”

He shoved closer, getting in Barty’s space, watching as his eyes flew wide. “Get the hell off me—“

“Not until you tell me what’s going on with you,” Evan prodded. “C’mon, Barty, it’s me. We’ve been friends since we were seven.”

Barty stared at him for what felt like a long time. Finally, he admitted, “I had a fight with my father. A big one.”

Evan’s eyebrows pulled together. He didn’t back off from Barty yet. “That’s it? You fight with him all the time.”

“Yeah,” Barty blew out a large breath, the pieces of hair framing his face fanning out. “But, this time, he found out his only son and heir is gay.”

It went dead silent for a moment while Evan processed that vital bit of information. Barty tried to look nonchalant, as if he didn’t care at all what Evan’s reaction would be, but he kept inadvertently flicking worried glances Evan’s way.

“The girls,” Evan said, meaning it as a question but it came out more as a grunt. Barty knew what he meant anyway.

“Yeah,” Barty sighed. “I thought maybe I could fake it pretty well. I don’t even sleep with most of them. We just end up getting drunk and making out, which is fine for me.”

Evan’s head was spinning. “But you — guys. You’re into guys.”

Barty swallowed again, and Evan couldn’t tear his eyes away from Barty’s throat even if he tried. He leaned forward, not quite sure what he was planning on doing before he pressed his lips to the skin just over Barty’s thundering pulse on the side of his neck. Barty gasped beneath him, arching up into his touch. Evan groaned against his skin, gently biting the area and soothing the sting with his tongue. Barty made a sort of keening wail.

“Oh, Merlin, Evan,” Barty gasped out, and then his hands were shoving Evan back. His pupils were blown wide when Evan looked at him. “You — you’re…?”

He trailed off, not quite asking what he wanted to ask. Evan answered anyway. “I like you. I want you. I don’t really care about anyone else.”

Barty’s eyes, which were already too-wide, grew impossibly wider. He surged forward, connecting their lips for a moment, and it was like Evan was doused in fire. He had no idea how he had managed to live without kissing Barty before. Too soon, Barty was pulling away, but only to tack on: “Me too, Evan. Only you.”

And just like a folk song

Our love will be passed on

The day after they graduated from Hogwarts, Barty and Evan moved into a tiny flat in London. It was barely enough space for a living area, kitchen, bedroom and bath, and Evan couldn’t possibly love it any more than he already did. It meant so much to him to live in a space that only belonged to him and Barty, a space that was entirely theirs.

Barty was at the shops, but he would be home soon. Home — that was the word Evan had been searching for. He’d lived in many places: his family’s extravagant manor, their many vacation houses, the dormitory, to name a few. But he had never felt at home in any of them, not the way he did in that tiny flat, with Barty.

When Barty finally did arrive, with four bags of groceries hanging off of his arms, Evan greeted him with a soft kiss and a warm smile. “Welcome home,” he said.

“Happy to be here,” Barty replied.

[american-troubadour]

Phil Ochs performing at Chess Mate in Detroit, Michigan in early September 1965.

Detroit Free Press | Detroit, Michigan | Sun, Oct 10, 1965:

[eretzyisrael]

Good News From Israel

In the 13th Oct 24 edition of Israel’s good news, the highlights include:

While fighting Hamas, the IDF rescued a Yazidi girl from slavery in Gaza.

Israelis can diagnose Alzheimer’s 20 years in advance of the first symptoms.

Israel spends more on education per capita than almost every other nation.

An Israeli laser beam can knock hostile drones out of the sky.

One day soon, Israeli technology will be inside every car.

An Israeli 17-year-old girl is Europe’s Youth chess champion.

A Torah scroll memorializing Oct 7 victims was dedicated at the Western Wall.

Read More: Good News From Israel

I hope those who celebrated the Jewish High Holidays are well and spiritually inspired.

This newsletter contains much news of Israel's work to benefit the outside world, in medicine, technology, etc.  Jews will shortly be celebrating the festival of Sukkot (Tabernacles) which takes us outside our homes and reminds us that we rely on protection from above. This reality is most certainly understood in Israel at this time.

The photo is of my little sukkah (tabernacle) from last year.  I plan to begin building this year's one almost immediately.

Wishing all who celebrate it a Very Happy Sukkot / Tabernacles. 

[mirikitakato]

[Translation] 2024 Shylock Birthday SSR Card: Even The Sound Is Captivating

Happy Birthday, Shylock! I was going out the whole day and just have enough time to translate this for him at night so that I could release it on Oct 14.

The Birthday trait is crazy though.

Card Story: With the Orgel's Melody - Respite to Shylock

One day, as Shylock's birthday approaches, I’m searching for him while holding a small box borrowed from Rustica, called "Orgel of Respite".

Akira: (A magical tool that connects to a mysterious space that can heal wizards... I want to celebrate Shylock's birthday with this.)

Murr: Sage! What’cha looking for?

Akira: …..Wah! Murr! Right, actually...

Murr: I see! Since you're holding that box, you must be looking for Shylock. I'll take you there!

[Scene changes to Shylock’s room]

Murr: I've brought the Sage!

Shylock: Oh mine...Welcome, both of you. Please knock, Murr. You never know what I might look like behind this door.

Although he says that, Shylock looks as elegant and refined as always. He smiles gently at me.

Shylock: Good afternoon, Sage. Welcome to my room.

Akira: Good afternoon, Shylock. I'm sorry to drop by suddenly.

Shylock: Not at all. I'm delighted that you came to see me.

Murr: Shylock~ Make that cocktail for me again! The one with the crescent moon-shaped lemon floating in pale blue liquor!

Murr flops onto the couch and says so. Holding a chess piece, he is spending his time as freely as if it’s his own room.

Shylock: Really now... Look at you, I can't believe you were just scolded.

Akira: Did something happen?

Shylock: He crossed paths with Oz this morning and upset him.

Akira: I-is everything alright? (Last time they met was a huge problem!!)

Shylock: Fortunately, I happened to pass by.

Murr: He said, "I'll scold him," and helped me!

Akira: That's good then...

Shylock: Well, I did scold him, but...I don't think he was listening. Hehe, he's quite a handful to train.

Akira: (As expected of Shylock. Instead of being discouraged, he's excited.) (He really finds joy in any situation, I can feel his open-mindedness…)

Shylock: By the way, is there something you want from me?

Akira: Ah, yes. It's about Shylock's birthday.

Murr: They said they’d take you to Orgel!

Shylock: Ah. A magical tool that Rustica received from a fan, right? I've heard from everyone that they received a wonderful respite from the Sage.

Akira: I'd like to invite Shylock too, is that alright?

Shylock: It’s my pleasure. I'm looking forward to a peaceful time with you.

Episode 2

A Few Days Later

As I pass by Shylock's bar...

Akira: (Huh? It's unusually quiet today. Usually, I always hear someone talking...)

Peeking inside, I see Shylock sitting on a sofa, elegantly tilting a wine glass.

Shylock: Oh, Sage. Welcome.

Akira: Good evening, Shylock. Did you already close the bar tonight?

Shylock: No. Last night, there were quite a few people causing a bit of a ruckus, so I banned them from entering for today. So, tonight is probably just you, Sage. Please, come in.

Shylock takes my hand and guides me to a seat at the counter. Then, he goes behind the counter.

Akira: I'm sorry if I disturbed you.

Shylock: I was just thinking up a new non-alcoholic cocktail, so don't worry about it.

Akira: Wow, a new menu item for the bar?

Shylock: I want to increase the menu options for those who don't drink alcohol. Would you like to try it?

Akira: Yes, of course!

Shylock hands me a cocktail that looks like an aurora. As I swirl the glass, it shifts from red to yellow, green to blue, then purple.

Akira: Amazing... It's so sparkly and beautiful... I’ll take a sip.

The moment I put it in my mouth, a refreshing citrus flavor spreads. It has a refreshing taste like a cool breeze, and I can’t help but smile joyfully.

Akira: It's so delicious!

Shylock: Hehe...I can feel your joy from your face, more than what words can express. If you were to name this cocktail, what do you think would suit it?

Akira: A name?

Shylock: Yes. If you don’t mind, I'd like the first person to try it, the Sage, to name it.

Akira: Eh, me? It's a very wonderful cocktail, but I might not be able to think of a good name…

Shylock: You can name it however you like. But if it's too much trouble, I won't force you.

His voice is so gentle, and his narrowed eyes seem to sweetly say, "Do as you please."

Akira: ……………………Okay. Then, could I have a little bit of time?

Shylock: As much as you like. The waiting time is also a joyful one.

Akira: (Shylock always gently supports my heart...) (Even when I'm feeling uncertain or insecure, my mind can be at ease thanks to him...) (I think I've decided on my wish for him at Orgel.)

Imagining that moment, I look forward to Shylock's birthday even more.

Episode 3

A few days later, on the day of Shylock's birthday...

Akira: Wow, you look great! That cool outfit suits you so well, Shylock.

Shylock: Thank you. Chloe worked really hard on it. It makes my good points shine even brighter, doesn't it?

Akira: Yes! Definitely!

Placing a small box on the table, I close my eyes. To guide Shylock to a magical space, I recall his charms...Then whisper in my heart like a prayer.

Akira: (With his open-mindedness that allows him to enjoy any situation, and his ability to be there for others, may Shylock find perfect peace...)

The lid of the small box opens with a sound. A doll resembling Shylock begins to dance around. Music can be heard from somewhere, and the surroundings are filled with soft light. When I come to my senses, a healing space has spread out, filled with elegant music like a butterfly flapping its wings, both graceful and soothing.

Shylock: It's a beautiful melody. Gentle, refined, and soothing to the heart.

Akira: It's a perfect song for Shylock. I can clearly see that this’s indeed your Orgel.

Shylock: Oh, hearing that makes me happy. Thank you.

Without hesitation, I guide Shylock to a place that has an elegant sofa.

Akira: Today, I want Shylock to relax completely. I'd be happy if you could relax.

As I say that, I neatly arrange the items from the basket I have carried on the table.

Shylock: This is...

Akira: Normally, alcohol would be best, but I think you may have your own preference in that regard... So I prepared some snacks instead.

Shylock: Hehe... You're so kind. You know my tastes well. Let's have a toast with a special fine wine that suits this occasion. Of course, I'll have the alcohol removed from yours.

Raising our glasses, we slowly enjoy our time here. His long fingers, which have the tips neatly manicured, pick up the snacks I prepared.

Shylock: It's delicious. The bitter cheese is to my taste.

Akira: I'm glad! Murr and Chloe told me that you've recently enjoyed eating cheese with nuts. Same with the other snacks. Everyone helped me think of things that Shylock would enjoy.

Shylock: Is that so? The Western wizards like to observe people. Seriously...they’ve truly been watching over me.

Looking carefully at the table, Shylock smiles with a look of happiness on his face. That smile reminds me of the one he has when he’s in the Magic Manor.

Akira: Um, Shylock. About the name of the cocktail you made the other day...

Shylock: You come up with something?

Akira: Yes. "Days at the Magic Manor"...How does that sound?

Shylock: "Days at the Magic Manor"...

Akira: One of my favorite daily routines in the Magic Manor is visiting Shylock's bar. I really enjoy seeing Shylock smiling while surrounded by other Sage’s wizards... I think the name would be very suitable for a cocktail that has the refreshing and clean feeling I get when talking to you.

Feeling a little embarrassed, I tell him everything, and Shylock returns a very soft smile.

Shylock: That's a wonderful name. I'll add "Days at the Magic Manor" to the menu right away.

Shylock snaps his fingers. Appearing with the light is the cocktail that had just been named.

Shylock: I want people who can't drink alcohol to feel free to come to the bar too. I have to tell everyone that there's a non-alcoholic cocktail that was named by the Sage.

Mischievously, he says so, and his wine-colored eyes curve into a smile. It’s the elegant, gentle, and loving smile I love.

Akira: Once again...Happy birthday, Shylock.

----oOo----

Card Episode: Enjoy this thoughtful and stylish gesture

Akira: Oh, Shylock. Are you having lunch now?

Shylock: Yes. I woke up a bit later than usual today, so I'm having a late lunch. Thank you very much for yesterday, Sage. I had a wonderful day.

Akira: It’s my line, the birthday party we had last night was really fun too.

Shylock: Yes. Rustica played the harpsichord for a birthday celebration, and Chloe even prepared party clothes for everyone...

Akira: I was surprised when Murr used magic on the barware and glasses to make them participate in the party.

Shylock: Hehe. It felt like I was being celebrated by the children I was looking after. A very thoughtful and stylish gesture. However, since I usually handle the barware carefully, I was a little worried that the glasses might get scratched every time they danced.

Note: the “children” mentioned here are the barware, not the Western wizards haha.

Akira: Ahaha. Murr's magic was so full of energy. In the end, we all had fun dancing like at a ball.

Shylock: Yes. I didn't want the fun to end. And as I was thinking that I didn't want the fun time to end, the sky began to lighten... I got into bed after the sun had already risen.

Akira: Oh, so that's why you woke up later than usual...?

Shylock: Hehe, that's right. You're the only one I've told that I had so much fun. It’s our little secret, Sage.

--- Home-screen voice line ---

"Time is vague for a wizard who has lived a long time. Ten years, a hundred years—they melt away in an instant. The days of my birth passed as fleetingly as a moment, but none of them can be dismissed. It is because of those days that I am who I am now, and that I can meet you like this."

--- Birthday Trait ---

Overnight: “To become the [me] that I could love” — he raises his lowered eyes, realizing something beyond the night he had changed his friend with his own hands.

Note: For the trait, the sentence in quotation marks uses watashi (I) when the rest of the trait uses kare (he). Originally, there are no quotation marks but I feel it will be very confusing to suddenly switch from I to he, so I twist the translation a little bit.

[opal-owl-flight]

7. Do they take part in ink battles? What kind and how often?

Absolutely! Inksport leagues are what most of the NSS do outside of agent duties. Theyre a major part of most Inkfish's lives in my writing, a lot of the themes I explore revolve around uh. Sport Movie kinda dealios BAHAHAH (alongside rhe Horrors but shh. When it comes to ocs outside the NSS, Inksports are the main focus)

3s a turf war legend both topside and underground. They were there when the sport was something only the delinquents did, unregulated and dangerous, matches that moved at a fast pace and where they had to leave IMMEDIATELY after or be caught by the authorities. Squid Force eventually found this sport and started sponsoring a safer, more regulated version of it. 3 rose up the ranks all the same (while complaining abt how EASY it is now). Theyve been here since the start. Their splashtag is whispered in awe ans reverence. They are usually followed around by a gaggle of fans or press (please leave them alone qoskw). They still participate in trench turf to satisfy their desire to turf like the good old days. 4 and 8 and Neo3 have no clue about it. They show up with new light scarring and people think its from agent stuff they do on their own -- nope!!

They also play ranked. Tower Control is their favorite mode! Positioning is critical in all modes, but this one has some very specific spots they can exploit and the battles have a flow thats easily readable to them. Its the same route every time! Opposing teams move in pretty specific ways! Its like chess to them. Massages their brain just right.

4s a rising star in the turf leagues. She was great at it back in her hometown in the highlands (the sport has been established here for awhile), but she feels that people are intentionally throwing their matches against her because shes a clan singer. She wanted to have the Real Deal. Moving to Inkopolis, she had a taste of what real turf matches are like...and saw how much more brutal they are. She grit her beak and learned, explosively, in fact, how to play properly. She rose up the ranks quickly the second she found her main weapon class. Shes only ever played topside turf but she is a force to be reckoned with. 3 complains that the new regulations made the game "easier", but someone who grew with the rules can see that its added more complexity. You cant just brute force everything in here. 4 weaves around these added limitations with ease. One can argue shes just as good as 3, if not better...

Her favorite ranked mode is (obviously) Rainmaker. Sneaking around, getting up close and personal with the carrier or their teammates clumped around them is something she greatly enjoys. Holding the nuke itself also gives her quite the rush!! Literally. Shes so beefy that she can carry it faster than the rest of her team (Judd flags her for that, she has to slow herself down to keep the game fair for everyone else). The Rainmaker mode is also reminiscent of some of the ceremonies she does/participates in back in the highlands. Its her job in those ceremonies to call the rain. It involves moving from place to place, carrying a relic that will make her voice heard to the heavens. Despite her not liking how suffocated she was in her homeland, she admits that she misses it, as well.

8 is relatively new to the turf scene. Shes always yearned to be a part of it, back when she was still underground. Now that shes on the surface, she frankly doesnt understand why its such a big deal anymore. Its just a game?? Why are people sweating over this?? And why is all this violence so revered here?? I think her general dislike for combat/conflict may be due to her being raised in a wartime context. She got out of that life, shes not going to go back to it. Still, bc she adores hanging out with 4 (and later 3), she plays the more casual turf war leagues. She occasionally plays ranked modes (splat zones are a favorite), but she tends to stick to the casual side of things. The high octane action and vigilance of the pro leagues makes her uncomfortable...

Neo3 is very new to the turf scene. She compares it to the sacred salmon runs that shes been a lucky witness to (its her only point of reference, bless her hearts). A fight for honor! A fight to the death! And you get to keep living after them? Its the best of both worlds! She enjoys terrorizing the opposing team in any mode. Shes as tenacious and as stubborn as a salmonid that easily slithers over enemy ink. Hitting from blind spots. Easily overwhelms foes with strength and numbers. As annoying as a flyfish. Occasionally, she claws and bites her opponents...which gets her flagged down by Judd. Its fine!! Shes having fun here!

Her favorite ranked mode is definitely Clam Blitz. In salmonid spawning season, the survivors of the runs gather the dropped eggs around the battleground into the nesting grounds to hatch them. Neo3 is reminded of that time as she gathers clams. She defends them as if they were eggs. (And then you see her trying to crack the clams open so she can eat them after the match....)

[blog-sekai]

Unit Introduction: Mirror's|Reflection

Four "childhood friends" re-connect and re-discover who they can be together...

*text heavy!!!!! I cannot draw & havent made picrews or anything yet

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About Mirror's|Reflection

They're a system! Caspian is the host & spends the most time at front. Their origin will intentionally be left ambiguous to prevent The Discourse(tm) from taking root.

The line dividing the two words of their unit name represents a mirror; their unit name invokes what's like to stand between two mirrors facing each other, and seeing countless reflections all around you.

They're a standard-enough band, having a sound that's not dissimilar to leo/NEED - this is likely because they're all musicians and have been for quite some time. A lot of their music is about identity/general "I want" songs, as well as songs about relationships - specifically platonic & familial relationships.

The other members are able to manifest in SEKAI - they can trade off who fronts by passing each other Caspian's cell phone. Depending on who's fronting, the body's eye color & the color of their hair's highlights will change.

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Caspian Hooks

Birthday: Oct 17

Height: 5'9.5" / 177cm

Hobbies: Doodling, Swimming

Specialty: Making Flash Cards

Favorite Food: Gummy Worms

Least Favorite Food: Spicy Things

Dislikes: Studying

Caspian is Alice's younger brother. They clashed a lot as kids, but have learned it's okay to rely on each other now that they're both struggling in high school. He plays the guitar, but like Alice, he started out by learning the piano. Caspian finds the ocean deeply comforting, as his childhood home was a short walk from the beach.

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Blaze

Birthday: April 7

Height: 5'9.5" / 177cm

Hobbies: Martial Arts, Chess

Specialty: Origami

Favorite Food: Instant Noodles

Least Favorite Food: Sweets

Dislikes: Practice

Blaze has been around second-longest, after Caspian. They were incredibly close as kids but drifted apart and eventually, like the others, he was suppressed. Blaze is short-tempered and is deeply upset at being ignored/forgotten, but more than that, what really pisses him off is when people treat others/the body poorly. He plays the keyboard/synth and actually kinda shreds at the keytar.

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Aloe

Birthday: April 22

Height: 5'9.5" / 177cm

Hobbies: Caring for Succulents, Taking Naps

Specialty: Patience

Favorite Food: Melon Bread

Least Favorite Food: Sushi

Dislikes: The Cold

Aloe helps a lot with soothing tensions between band members, as she hates conflict and would like to live in harmony with everyone. She's fairly laid-back, and likes to do things at her own pace, but takes her interests and the band very seriously. The others mainly ask her to front when they're having trouble sleeping. She plays the bass for the band and can also play the saxophone reasonably well, too.

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Gail

Birthday: June 18

Height: 5'9.5" / 177cm

Hobbies: Finding Deals, Fashion

Specialty: Studying

Favorite Food: Korean BBQ

Least Favorite Food: Sandwiches

Dislikes: Loud Noise

Gail very rarely fronts, because she is the most uncomfortable with the body's assigned gender. She's indisputably the smartest in the group, so the others often go to her for help with homework and studying; Gail does genuinely enjoy learning things, so she'll often only ask to front if the others are struggling with paying attention in class. For the band, Gail plays the drums, but she's also really good with the viola.

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Sekai: Ocean SEKAI

Unit Virtual Singers:

Hatsune Miku: In SEKAI, she's dressed like a pirate, and helps with navigating the ship. She often gets the others into trouble more than she genuinely helps, but things tend to work out in the end regardless.

Otomachi Una: In SEKAI, she helps Miku with ship repairs. Spicy-Una also mans the cannons when various sea beasties attack, while Sweet-Una helps in the galley, although her skill leaves much to be desired.

[tximista-rissole]

I just realized that I haven't posted any comics really on here so I'll change that for the holidays! (And maybe be more consistent about it in the future!)

So I'll start out with my current oct character's intro! And I'll have more to post throughout this month!

[operationmorewhitecollar]

Shall we play a game?

Nope, not chess or Parchisi. And not even global thermonuclear war. (If you get that reference, you might just be as old as we are!) But no, none of those games are where we're headed. This year, we're hosting a good old-fashioned game of bingo!

That's right, since we're almost two weeks into the new year, we thought it might be time to roll out our new creative challenge, which will continue throughout 2024.

As always, we're in the market for any and all fan creations centered on White Collar, and this year, we're providing prompts in the form of mini bingo cards, with new prompt cards coming out quarterly. (Jan, April, July, October) If you want to play, just let us know (comment here, dm, however you want to get in touch), and we'll get you a card so you can get started!

Some details:

When we say "any and all fan creations," we mean it--let your creativity run wild and make whatever you want to make! Draw, write, paint, record a podcast, shoot a video, whatever your creative preference.

We're using a 4x4 card format, and there is a FREE space, so that means a total of 15 prompts for three months. Complete a line of prompts, get a bingo; complete the whole card during the quarter, and that, dear friends, is a blackout!

Much like our drabble prompts, the bingo prompts are pretty broad, and many (maybe most?) are only one word. They run the gamut from theme words to genre to story length and beyond. (Not to worry if you're making art or some other non-written creations; we've got provisions for swapping prompts.)

Prompts were randomized to create the cards, and the card numbers were randomized to create the distribution order, so the prompts you end up with are strictly luck.

Okay, that's probably the most important stuff to know, except, of course, that we hope lots of you will join in and that everyone has tons of fun creating new White Collar stuff, because we're sure going to have fun seeing whatever you make!

So whenever you're ready, shall we play a game?

(We'll put a few more detailed FAQ items below the cut, but if you've got questions we didn't think of, just let us know and we'll make up an answer.😉)

Q: What can my entries be? A: Any type of creation you choose. fic, art, blog post, essay, cross-stitch, we're not picky. Interpret the prompts any way you like, in any genre, any relationship, any rating, any characters, you get the idea. (Unless, of course, the prompt is more specific.) As long as it's White Collar, it's fair game.

Q: Where do we share our work/how will you know we made something or got a bingo? A: First, put your creations somewhere we can see them! There'll be a collection on AO3 where most types of work can be shared. (We're debating if it's better to have just one collection for the year or one for each quarter; if you've got any opinions on that, feel free to weigh in.) If you're sharing here or on other socials, be sure to @ us, and use #WhiteCollarBingo. But, while we'll be doing our best to keep up, we're hoping there will be so many entries we'll lose track, so definitely tell us if you completed a bingo!

Q: Can I make one story/picture/video/etc. for the whole card? A: You may use as many prompts as you like in each entry, but only 2 prompts per line may be counted toward a bingo. (So you will need at least two entries to achieve a single bingo, and though we may have miscounted, we think that means at least ten entries to make a blackout.)

Q: Are crossovers allowed? A: Yes (and may even be a prompt!), but White Collar should obviously be prevalent in your work.

Q: How long do I have to complete my entries? A: We'll be issuing new cards each quarter (Jan-March, April-June, July-Sept, Oct-December), and in a perfect world, we'd like to receive entries within that quarter. But you know we've never been sticklers for schedules, and the point is to encourage more White Collar creations, so we'll be glad to get them whenever you finish.

Q: What do I win when I bingo? A: Bragging rights, and your name on our (soon to be created) bingo accomplishments page.

Q: What if there are some prompts I really don't want to use, but I want to try for blackout? A: We will provide a max of two alternate prompts. (This max does not apply if you're making non-written creations and somehow ended up with a card full of writing-centric prompts.)

Q: What if I just can't work with the card I receive at all? A: We'll exchange your card one time. Part of the fun is stretching our creative muscles.

Q: If I exchange my card, will any previous entries count toward bingo on my new card? A: Nope. It's a fresh slate, so examine your card when you get it to decide if it works for you.

Q: If I complete my card, can I have another? A: Yep, and we'd be very impressed! (and happy!)

Q: Where did these prompts come from? A: Many suggestions from our followers, and we've been hunting and gathering, too. But we want to have lots of variety as the year rolls along, so please keep those suggestions rolling in.

Q: Can something I made for another challenge count toward a bingo prompt/Can I submit my work to more than one collection or challenge? A: As long as it's new work, and if the other challenge doesn't ask for exclusivity, bring it on! And frankly, we'd love to see more White Collar activity in multi-fandom spaces. Also, we'll surely be hosting other events throughout the year (at least Mozzie Mania and Caffrey-Burke Day), and you can certainly use a bingo prompt for any of those challenges as well.

[diver5ion]

my time on tumblr in 2024 was markedly less, but here goes jan: kmcg day | mh vs the supernatural - apparently it can't be both feb: tumblr likes boobs chess i guess | so does kara? mar: white shirt day | i like betty gilpin's face, i wish i liked this show more apr: lena doing her :( face (i actually prefer the one after this) | wendy! (also anytime i get @ that someone's used my gif for their post and then i look and my gif is nowhere in the post, i think of this and her "why was i even in that meeting?" may: ;o it's not kmcg | fav just because i somehow managed to use photoshop's neural blah blah thing to remove rand's face in the first gif; which reminds me i have to decide whether to continue my adobe subscription or not by feb jun: saskia beats lena this month | jennifer connelly <3 eventually i'll finish this show jul: she betrayed me :( she broke my heart :( | i'm still upset but one day i'll finish this show aug: not much here - i started reading again, i wish i can gif books sept: witch lena era oct: i miss shaw | i miss joan nov/dec: yeah, nah. i was playing baldur's gate 3. thanks for tagging me, @mangeur-detoiles - your gifs are awesome :)

[fangsandfeels]

Oct 27 - Favorite Inquisition scene/dialogue

I found the Doom Upon all The World to be a bit anticlimatic. It felt like "let's beat the old man up for the last time" rather than the final showdown. But, I generally don't find Corypheus a strong or intimidating antagonist. Maybe, he wasn't supposed to be an evil and manipulative overlord - he was meant to be that disfigured creature, clinging to the past (and actually having not a single idea of what he was doing which lead to the reality of madness we saw in the alternative timeline, but I wish the writers capitalized on that more).

But, I liked bits and pieces of the final quest:

Sybil responding to Corypheus speech about "let's see who is worthy of being a god" with "Nah, I don't believe in gods" and a shit-eating grin.

Also, Corypheus clutching his pearls at her response:

The aftermath of the final battle as Sybil reunited with her group and saw everyone alive and well.

And when her mood was instantly darkened by the realization that Solas was nowhere to be seen. That something very important to him went wrong - and she was unable to help him with that.

Also moments of companions interacting with each other in Skyhold are my favorite, just like the dialogues. It's hard to pick one, so I'll just give a messy recollection: Solas and Bull playing mental chess. Blackwall sweating bullets each time someone asks him about any Warden-related stuff. Cole broadcasting companions’ memories and inner worries much to our delight. All companion scenes from Trespasser DLC: from Varric pranking Cassandra on Sybill's and the Iron Bull's marriage to Vivienne taking Sybil out on a SPA day and Sera wrecking havoc on the background. It was a love letter from companion writers and I enjoyed it.

And a bit of favorite quotes:

Blackwall making a reference that made me laugh like a goose for 15 minutes straight

Sera: Do all Grey Wardens have beards?

Blackwall: No, just me. I stole all the beards... and all the power held within.

Blackwall: There can be only one.

Sera: Not really!

Vivienne turning the tables on Sera’s bullying attempts like the queen she is

Sera: Checked your drawers recently, Vivvy?

Vivienne: Hmm? Oh, yes, my dear. Although I was rather well stocked with that particular shade of viper. So I sent it back.

Sera: Sent… sent it back?

Vivienne: Yes. It should make its way to you at some point.

Vivienne: I was most concerned it might have difficulty on the steps, so I gave it legs. Six of them.

Sera: That's not… you're making fun, right?

Vivienne: Do you sleep with your mouth open? I should avoid that, it was heavy with eggs. Skitter skitter.

───────

Vivienne: Skitter skitter skitter.

Sera: (Shudders.) Frigging stop it, witchy pisser!

Cole causing Cassandra to bluescreen after spilling tea about Lambert

Cassandra: Cole, do you have any proof about what you claim Lord Seeker Lambert did?

Cole: I was there. I didn't need proof.

Cassandra: But he could have been brought to justice. There are rules...

(me screaming behind the screen: BUT YOU WEREN’T THERE WERE YOU?)

Cole: He used rules to hurt people. He always found a way to be right, even when he killed my friend.

Cassandra: You had a friend?

Cole: A pretty Templar. She died protecting Rhys and me, but she got better.

Cassandra: I... don't even want to know what that means.

Cole letting Bull know that his Tama is secretly happy for him because she knew that he was too kind and caring for the task Qun demanded of him

Cole: "Tama, how will I follow the Qun?" Her hands, strong but gentle, ruffles stubs where the horns will be.

Cole: "You are strong, and your mind is sharp. You will solve problems others cannot." She smiles, but sadly.

Iron Bull: Looks like my old Tamassran was wrong. Bet she's pissed one of her kids went Tal-Vashoth.

Cole: Agents with hushed tones. Eyes stinging, forms to fill out, course corrections, reduce risk of similar losses.

Cole: I remember the little boy, too wise, eager to help. Words break in small secret spaces. He got away. He got away.

Iron Bull: How could you know that? You've never even met her.

Cole: Your hurt touches hers.

Iron Bull: Well, that's, uh, creepy. But... thanks.

And, of course, Solas offering Bull comfort after he chose Chargers over Qun:

Solas: You are not Tal-Vashoth, Iron Bull, not really.

Iron Bull: Well that's a fuckin' relief.

Solas: You are no beast, snapping under the stress of the Qun's harsh discipline.

Solas: You are a man who made a choice... possibly the first of your life.

Iron Bull: I've always liked fighting. What if I turn savage, like the other Tal-Vashoth?

Solas: You have the Inquisition, you have the Inquisitor... and you have me.

Iron Bull: Thanks, Solas.

[a-wonderful-danganronpa]

🎁 INFO: Birthdays

[NO SPOILERS]

some of our characters may not even have names yet, but that doesn't mean i won't do Birthday Posts for them going forward, just as Kodaka does!

here's a list of student birthdays:

🚦 the Speed Wonder: Nov 25th

🕰️ the Clockmaking Wonder: Oct 1st

🩸 the Perfumist Wonder: Apr 20th

🌕 the Poet Wonder: Sept 30th

🦈 the Gossip Wonder: Nov 5th

🏹 the Hunting Wonder: Aug 14th

🏍️ the Rockhound Wonder: Feb 7th

🧚 the Undertaking Wonder: Jan 2nd

🌀 the Diplomat Wonder: Mar 22nd

✈️ the Pilot Wonder: Jun 6th

🎸 the Marine Life Wonder: Jan 15th

♟️ the Chess Wonder: Feb 13th

💥 the Pyrotechnic Wonder: Jul 10th

⚛️ the Party Planning wonder: Apr 17th

📖 the Monastery librarian (our protagonist): Oct 25th

🍯 and the Monastery groundskeeper: Aug 24th

(some of this info is already in the Profiles i've been posting—and there will be more Profiles in the coming days—but i wanted it all in one place, too.)