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circleofaeaea · 6 months ago

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Basic tips for moving to another country

Ok, here's some things to consider as you start looking at countries/visas:

Career/Degree

So, this is rough, but, most countries will prefer you to at least have a bachelors. If you don't have one it doesn't 100% close the door, but you will need to have skill training in a trade at the very least. The reality is when people from the US are looking to move to another country there's an expectation that you will have proof of education. If you are currently in high school/college you can get around this by studying abroad, but once you've graduated that's no longer an option.

Different countries are looking for different careers/skills. Make sure once you've picked a few to consider that you check the list of in demand jobs/skills. If you have what they're looking for immigration becomes far easier than if you have a job in a career where there is less of a need. Some common careers that often make this list include:

Healthcare (especially nurses and specialists)

Engineers

Programmers/IT

Teachers

Skilled trades such as construction/electrician

Truck Drivers (be warned you'd need a drivers license, and typically they want a good chunk of previous experience)

If your career isn't on that list don't worry right away, while these are common different countries have different needs. That being said I will say I've seen nurses on almost every single country's list, so if you complete a nursing program it becomes way easier to get a job anywhere, so long as it is a career you are comfortable in.

Language

You all knew this was coming. If English is your only language, you need to either choose a country where it is the official language/commonly spoken or begin learning a new language. I would advise not starting to learn until you've chosen a country however, but this is something to keep in mind.

Political/Cultural Considerations

Coming from the US, it's easy to view the rest of the world from that lens. However, we're pretty different from other parts of the world, and it's important to take that into consideration. For example, in some parts of the world you need to be extremely careful of what you post online/to social media, or you could face arrest. In some countries you need to be careful of the clothes you wear, and how revealing they are. Make sure to do your research first.

At the same time, it's important to approach with an open mind. Things will be different, but it doesn't have to be bad. Know what your dealbreakers are ahead of time, and choose a country that avoids them. Remember though that while you're moving to another country, you're technically a guest. It's not a great idea to immediately start protesting how things are done your first week in a new country. Do your research ahead of time so you can avoid being in a situation you don't feel safe/comfortable in. Because unless you become a citizen, you really can't do much to change things, and attempting to do so could get you into potential legal trouble depending on the country. We're used to being able to protest and complain as much as we like in the US, but that isn't the case in a large part of the world. So make sure you're being as diplomatic as you can be, and familiarize yourself with local laws/rules.

Additionally, if you are LGBTQ you need to look at which countries are safest for you. Some you will be fine in as long as you blend in/stay closeted, but others you could be in serious danger. I will do a more in depth post on which countries are the best/safest to move to in the future. But to start with do your research on any country and its policies. There's a difference between a country such as Canada which is fairly similar to the US, and a country like Japan where while gay marriage isn't legal they do recognize it if it's legal in your home country, and a country such as Saudi Arabia where it is criminalized.

Religion

Putting this separate. In the US we have all kinds of religions along with religious freedom. This is not the case everywhere, so research ahead of time. Foreigners may not necessarily be expected to convert to the dominant religion of a country, but depending on the country you may be expected to conform to it. Make sure you take that into consideration before selecting a country. And if you're religious and are thinking of converting people... just be aware not all countries are friendly to that, and many will not take that well.

Finances

You all knew this was coming too. It sucks, especially in this economy, but you will want at least some savings. Check the currency of the country you're choosing vs the US dollar, along with the cost of living. Here is a handy calculator, though some locations are not available: Cost of Living Calculator

If the US dollar is worth more in the country you're choosing, then even $5-10,000 can last you a while. Note that some countries will require you to have a minimum amount of money in savings in order to grant you a visa. Some countries will straight up hand you a visa if you pay them enough (I'll cover that in more depth in another post). There have been countries willing to sponsor people moving in the past, but unfortunately covid put many of those programs on hold or straight up removed.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, but this is a starting point for moving to another country.

#immigration #leaving the US

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themculibrary · 1 year ago

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Steve and Peggy (Steggy) Masterlist 3

part one, part two

Ain't Love a Kick (ao3) - roboticonography M, 33k

Summary: Steve wakes up after the crash to find his life has changed dramatically - the main change being, he's married to Peggy Carter.

A Lot of Issues (ao3) - linascribbles T, 66k

Summary: Peggy Carter is a Fashion Editor at Sakaar magazine. She’s used to juggling egos, drama queens and ridiculous assignments from her boss all the time. She's even used to dealing with gorgeous six foot blonds on the regular. But none of that really prepeared her for Steve Rogers, his fumbling charm, or the gorgeous way he blushes.

Steve Rogers is a graphic designer who only models to make ends meet. New York is the perfect city for that, but just as NYC's fashion word is prolific, it is also... bizarre. In his line of work Steve's gotten used to losing significant chunks of his dignity quite often (He has a photo album about it, lovingly curated by the one and only Bucky Barnes), but maybe, just this once, he could avoid making a mess of himself in front of that beautiful model on this shoot. No such luck.

Certain I'm Yours (ao3) - Spacecadet72 G, 1k

Summary: Steve wasn’t suspicious, at first.

The Howling Commandos are less than subtle in their attempts to matchmake Peggy and Steve using a gift exchange.

church bells ring, carry me home (ao3) - mybestgirl T, 18k

Summary: A how-to guide on getting Steve Rogers and Peggy Carter married: step one, bachelor party. Step two, wedding. Step three, honeymoon.

Coffee Talk (ao3) - indiefic G, 1k

Summary: Jack Thompson is sick of Peggy Carter thinking she can do whatever she wants.

Don't Miss a Moment (ao3) - agentofvalue T, 40k

Summary: The war has been over for years. After five years, Steve even came back from the dead. Peggy married him and that should be the happily ever after. But, they are still Captain America and Agent Carter. With them, nothing ever goes according to plan. Not even impending parenthood.

I Just Keep Falling For You (ao3) - BuckyWithTheGoodHair86 G, 10k

Summary: Steve is starting to make a habit out of unexpected falls and sticky situations. Fortunately, Peggy always arrives in time to get him out.

In Bourbon Veritas (ao3) - doctorhelena T, 3k

Summary: There were actually two beds. Peggy just didn’t seem interested in getting in the other one.

International Incident (ao3) - linascribbles E, 112k

Summary: Peggy Carter rose through the diplomatic ranks in the midst of the Incident and in her short career already stablished herself as a skilled and well-connected negotiator. Stationed in the Washington DC embassy, she's right on the front lines of the fallout of Project Insight. Governments get purged, new and unexpected doors open, and Peggy Carter is nothing if not resourceful.

As she gets plunged into a world of spies, mad scientists and superheroes, familiar faces start to pop up. Particularly one pesky Captain America, who seems to have no idea what international law entails and considers country borders mere suggestions.

in the heat of battle (ao3) - littlereyofsunlight M, 42k

Summary: “After this is over,”—and wasn’t that everyone’s favorite pastime, here in relative safety, playing After the War as though one could even pretend to make plans for a life, as though this blasted conflict hasn’t already completely changed everything in this world, forever—

Peggy Carter has always been a fighter.

Just In Case (ao3) - captaindoritoes G, 2k

Summary: Hope you enjoy this a bit of angst, a bit of comfort fanfic - four times Steve and Peggy share a kiss, just in case it’s their last one. Their love language is touch - in this essay I will -

Letting Agent Carter In (ao3) - cadkitten E, 4k

Summary: Steve is still learning to draw the human form and when he finds the perfect solution in his head, he's not sure he can actually ask for it in person. But he'll be damned if he won't give it a try.

Pin Curls (ao3) - SomewhereApart T, 3k

Summary: Peggy Carter has imagined how she’d feel at the return of Steve Rogers a hundred different times. Still, she's unprepared for the reality of him, standing on her porch on a Sunday afternoon.

She Wanted (ao3) - TriplePirouette E, 3k

Summary: Peggy wants to eat Skinny Steve alive.

The Shops on Shield Street (ao3) - fluffernutter8 G, 5k

Summary: Running a small business is already hard enough without someone trying to sabotage things.

Time and Again (ao3) - Beshter N/R, 163k

Summary: When an insane man who claims he can travel through time appears out of nowhere, Peggy Carter agrees to go with him to save the world, little expecting the strange new life she'd be stepping into on the other side.

We Still Talk (ao3) - roboticonography M, 9k

Summary: Newlyweds Steve and Peggy take a holiday to get away from it all - but the great outdoors might hold more challenges than they bargained for!

we were born to be national treasures (ao3) - meidui G, 1k

Summary: “I’m back,” he chokes out artlessly into her shoulder, into the soft dark waves of her hair and the spiced floral of her perfume. He stopped believing he would ever get to go home after the war a long time ago, or that there would ever be an after the war for him, but—

“Right on time,” Peggy whispers, her voice shaking, and Steve’s next breath breaks on a sob.

Where poppies grow (ao3) - beautifulwhensarcastic T, 1k

Summary: The night preceding the procedure Steve can't sleep, which leads him to a surprising, touching discovery.

you can count on me (ao3) - sokovianaccords (thesokovianaccords) N/R, 5k

Summary: A Christmas mission for Agent Rogers and Agent Carter brings some things to light

#themculibrary #masterlists #marvel #mcu #steve rogers #peggy carter #steggy #steggy masterlist

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densi-mber · 1 year ago

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Behind the Scenes

A/N: This idea was inspired by the Ted Lasso episode “No Weddings and a Funeral”. Particularly the element with key events happening on the same day.

***

April 3, 2001

“Miss Blye, you have some of the highest grades I’ve seen in my career,” Susan Walters, Kensi’s academic advisor told her. “It’s really quite impressive. Especially considering the…hardships you’ve dealt with.”

Kensi studied her intertwined fingers, still uncomfortable with the allusion to her past. Few people knew about her father’s death, her years spent homeless, and she preferred to keep it that way.

“Thank you, Ma’am. The support I’ve received from the university and staff has certainly helped,” Kensi replied diplomatically. She didn’t mention that while in high school she’d worked a nearly full-time job to get by while attending high school or that she’d forged various documents when she needed parental approval.

“That’s good to hear. Speaking of which, I understand that you are interested in pursuing a military career.”

“My father was in the military, but I’ve actually considered the Naval Criminal Investigative Service.” Susan Walters tilted her head, and Kensi tacked on. “It’s a federal agency that handles the investigation of military cases and other national cases that go beyond other agencies’ scope of practice.”

“I see,” Susan Walters said, nodding. Kensi had hoped to get a few semesters under her belt before mentioning that particular aspiration. When she’d brought it up with her high school advisor, the woman had pushed her to consider more “likely” careers.

“I know it’s unusual,” Kensi hurried to explain, a fault of hers under pressure. “But I’ve always wanted to help people and this still allows me to support the military.” She didn’t dare mention her ulterior motives for choosing NCIS.

“Actually, I have heard of the agency in the past. I think it’s a wonderful ambition,” Susan told Kensi, much to her surprise. “Particularly because I received contact from a privately funded scholarship looking to support your education.”

“Oh. May I ask what the scholarship is called?” Kensi asked. She already had merit-based scholarships and awards that covered most of her tuition, room, and board. The rest was subsidized by loans and her work-study position.

“It’s one of many from the LH Legacy Foundation. The founders look to support students pursuing a service career such as in the military or law enforcement.”

“I’ve never heard of that before.” And Kensi had applied for just about every scholarship she could.

“It’s quite a private scholarship,” Susan explained shortly. She pulled Kensi’s file to the middle of her desk. “Anyway, beginning this semester, you will be eligible for this scholarship and continue to be eligible for as long as your GPA remains at 3.8 or higher and pursue your current path.”

Kensi walked out of her appointment 20 minutes later stunned. With this new scholarship, she could quit her job and not take out anymore loans.

It was life changing.

***

April 3, 2001

“So, Marty, where do we stand with your applications for law school?”

“Yeah, about that, Mr. Strum,” Deeks responded, shifting uncomfortably. “I’ve filled out a couple, but—”

“I’m sure you know that most deadlines are approaching quickly. If you want to be accepted for the year following your graduation, you really do need to apply now,” the man sitting across from Deeks explained.

Deeks didn’t think Strum had ever fully understood him. Unlike the previous advisors, at lest he seemed to want Deeks to succeed.

“Yeah, no, I realize that.” Deeks tucked a strand of hair behind his ear. “I’d love to apply, but it’s the financial aspect. I don’t have the money for the application fees, let alone if I actually get accepted into any of the programs. I’m barely scraping by as it is.”

It was a humiliating revelation, and one that he’d put off as long as possible. Sure, the university knew he was a scholarship kid, without family contribution, but they didn’t know the true extent of his situation. They definitely didn’t know about his late nights spent stripping—and he fervently hoped no one ever would.

“Oh, well you should have told me sooner,” Strum said. “There are waivers you and funds you can apply for specifically for this situation. In fact, we have an entire fund just for that purpose. And, then when the time comes we can look into grants and scholarships for law school.”

Frowning, Deeks processed the information for a few moments, then regarded Strum suspiciously. “Graduate level students typically don’t qualify for scholarships,” he pointed out. “Not unless it’s in a field that pays for its future employees to finish. So, what would I have to do?”

“Nothing, Marty.” Strum paused a beneath. “Except continue to demonstrate the same spectacular level of work and enthusiasm for the legal profession as you always have.”

It sounded too easy, which worried Deeks. In his experience, this kind of thing never came without catches.

Yet, he was pretty desperate. Just enough to sigh, and accept the offer.

“Thank you, sir. What do I need to fill out.”

Smiling, Strum passed him a document with the heading LH Endowment Fund at the top. He hoped he wasn’t making a mistake.

***

A/N: I realize this doesn’t quite fit into some of the canon events for Kensi and Deeks’ first encounters with Hetty. However, it’s made pretty clear they were on her radar far before they actually knew it. So, if this contradicts anything canon, well, the show writers did it often enough that I should get a pass.

Also, this is not really condoning Hetty’s actions, just demonstrating that she was manipulating events with all the team for years.

#ncis la fanfiction #densimber 7.0 #densimber 2023 #densimber day 11 #pre show #marty deeks #kensi blye #Hetty the meddler #ncis la #by ejzah #note from mashmaiden - please ignore the incorrect date I manipulated into the pic #lol

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the-darkness-does-not-bargain · 2 years ago

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SCP-XXXX: “Ava”, chapter 4 preview

Just a tidbit of what I’m working on. Hope you guys are still excited for this!

SCP-XXXX: Do you mean it?

Dr. Young: Mean what?

SCP-XXXX: About all this. Will you really teach me about cells and stuff?

Dr. Young smiles.

Dr. Young: Yes, Ava, if you’re willing to learn, I will teach you. Do you like learning about science?

SCP-XXXX shrugs.

SCP-XXXX: It beat bible study by a mile. Though that might have more to do with the teachers. Sister Agatha taught all the science classes, such as they were. She tried to make it a little fun… even did the whole mini volcano thing during the geology unit. We thought that was the coolest shit.

Dr. Young: I’m not a geologist, but the study of volcanic activity is fascinating. I’m sure the library here has books on it if you’re interested.

SCP-XXXX: I think I’ll stick with biology to start, not that rocks aren’t cool as shit. Thanks, Bea.

Dr. Young: Of course, Ava.

Approximately 5 seconds of silence elapse.

SCP-XXXX: So… what about you?

Dr. Young: Hmm? What about me?

SCP-XXXX shifts forward in her chair, shifting her weight to either side in a semi-regular rhythm.

SCP-XXXX: Well, obviously you like learning about science, but did you always want to study animals and cells and stuff?

Dr. Young taps her pen against her notepad. 3 seconds of silence elapse. SCP-XXXX leans back and flushes.

SCP-XXXX: Sorry, you don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to.

Dr. Young smiles at SCP-XXXX.

Dr. Young: Given all the questions we expect you to answer, it’s more than fair for you to ask some in return. I apologize for my absentmindedness.

SCP-XXXX: Oh, no worries. It’s chill.

Dr. Young: To answer your question, no. For a long time, I didn’t want to pursue a career in science at all. I was always fascinated by it, but I never even considered earning a degree in it until I entered university.

SCP-XXXX leans forward again.

SCP-XXXX: What did you think you wanted to do?

Dr. Young: Don’t laugh when I tell you. It seems quite strange in retrospect.

SCP-XXXX: Wouldn’t dream of it.

Dr. Young: Well… I actually wanted to study religion, and eventually join the church. I was raised Catholic, and my family was very devout.

SCP-XXXX: Are they doctors too? Or… religion-studiers or whatever?

Dr. Young chuckles.

Dr. Young: The term you want is theologian. But no, they were politicians, diplomats. When I showed less than zero interest in politics, they pushed me to study theology as the only suitable alternative. They never neglected my education, so I knew that I enjoyed science before but… I also thought that a life devoted to faith would be good for me.

SCP-XXXX: Until?

Dr. Young: Until it came time for me to choose my classes for the first term, and I chose a biology elective. I took it for fun, I never thought it would cause me to change anything about my path in life.

SCP-XXXX: But it did.

Dr. Young: But it did. It didn’t happen all at once. Actually, in hindsight, it was quite slow. One class turned into more, but I continued to pursue my theology degree well into my third year. At first, I thought that studying both would give me a richer understanding of my faith, and in many ways it did.

SCP-XXXX: Meaning?

Dr. Young shrugs.

Dr. Young: I believe that there are higher powers out there in the universe. But what shape those powers take, I have no idea. God may look nothing like I always imagined Him, but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing.

SCP-XXXX: …But he could be a weird tentacle guy.

Dr. Young laughs.

Dr. Young: He could be. But there’s a kind of freedom in not knowing, don’t you think? When you’re certain you know how the world works, you become limited within its perceived rules. It’s only when you open yourself up to the possibility of being wrong that you can recognize how little you actually know about anything. It’s a frightening revelation, but an exciting one too. The rules you thought you were rigid and clearly defined fall away, and a universe of new potential opens up in their wake. There’s something divine about that, I think. A single moment of seeing the world as He must.

Approximately 2 seconds of elapse.

SCP-XXXX: So you’re, like, smart smart, huh?

Dr. Young laughs.

Dr. Young: What do you mean by that?

SCP-XXXX flushes and wiggles in her seat.

SCP-XXXX: I mean, like, you know stuff, but you also know stuff about stuff. Shit, that sounds so stupid. Forget I said anything.

Dr. Young: I understand what you meant. It’s not stupid, Ava, and neither are you.

SCP-XXXX: Yeah, sure…

Dr. Young leans forward and rests her hand flat on the table.

Dr. Young: You’re not stupid, Ava. Uneducated, perhaps, but that isn’t your fault. And we’re going to fix that now, aren’t we?

SCP-XXXX looks away and bites her bottom lip, and then grins at Dr. Young, who grins back.

SCP-XXXX: Yeah, I guess we are.

#warrior nun #scp #scp au #look at them being cute #my writing

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diocletianscabbagefarm · 2 years ago

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Dominique De Villepin, former Prime Minister of France (who also led France's opposition to the Iraq war and advocated for the Palestinians in 2014) who's had a significant diplomatic career gave a pretty good interview (source for translation) that touches on many of the reasons why the Palestine-Israel conflict is so insoluble and how the use of force is a cyclical dead end. Interview beneath the cut

"Hamas has set a trap for us, and this trap is one of maximum horror, of maximum cruelty. And so there's a risk of an escalation in militarism, of more military interventions, as if we could with armies solve a problem as serious as the Palestinian question.

There's also a second major trap, which is that of Occidentalism. We find ourselves trapped, with Israel, in this western bloc which today is being challenged by most of the international community.

[Presenter: What is Occidentalism?]

Occidentalism is the idea that the West, which for 5 centuries managed the world's affairs, will be able to quietly continue to do so. And we can clearly see, even in the debates of the French political class, that there is the idea that, faced with what is currently happening in the Middle East, we must continue the fight even more, towards what might resemble a religious or a civilizational war. That is to say, to isolate ourselves even more on the international stage.

This is not the way, especially since there's a third trap, which is that of moralism. And here we have in a way the proof, through what is happening in Ukraine and what is happening in the Middle East, of this double standard that is denounced everywhere in the world, including in recent weeks when I travel to Africa, the Middle East, or Latin America. The criticism is always the same: look at how civilian populations are treated in Gaza, you denounce what happened in Ukraine, and you are very timid in the face of the tragedy unfolding in Gaza.

Consider international law, the second criticism that is made by the global south. We sanction Russia when it aggresses Ukraine, we sanction Russia when it doesn't respect the resolutions of the United Nations, and it's been 70 years that the resolutions of the United Nations have been voted in vain and that Israel doesn't respect them.

[Presenter: Do you believe that the Westerners are currently guilty of hubris?]

Westerners must open their eyes to the extent of the historical drama unfolding before us to find the right answers.

[Presenter: What is the historical drama? I mean, we're talking about the tragedy of October 7th first and foremost, right?]

Of course, there are these horrors happening, but the way to respond to them is crucial. Are we going to kill the future by finding the wrong answers…

[Presenter: Kill the future?]

Kill the future, yes! Why?

[Presenter: But who is killing whom?]

You are in a game of causes and effects. Faced with the tragedy of history, one cannot take this 'chain of causality' analytical grid, simply because if you do you can't escape from it. Once we understand that there is a trap, once we realize that behind this trap there has also been a change in the Middle East regarding the Palestinian issue… The situation today is profoundly different [from what it was in the past]. The Palestinian cause was a political and secular cause. Today we are faced with an Islamist cause, led by Hamas. Obviously, this kind of cause is absolute and allows no form of negotiation. On the Israeli side, there has also been a development. Zionism was secular and political, championed by Theodor Herzl in the late 19th century. It has largely become messianic, biblical today. This means that they too do not want to compromise, and everything that the far-right Israeli government does, continuing to encourage colonization, obviously makes things worse, including since October 7th. So in this context, understand that we are already in this region facing a problem that seems profoundly insoluble.

Added to this is the hardening of states. Diplomatically, look at the statements of the King of Jordan, they are not the same as six months ago. Look at the statements of Erdogan in Turkey.

[Presenter: Precisely, these are extremely harsh statements…]

Extremely worrying. Why? Because if the Palestinian cause, the Palestinian issue, hasn't been brought to the forefront, hasn't been put on stage [for a while], and if most of the youth today in Europe have often never even heard of it, it remains for the Arab peoples the mother of all battles. All the progress made towards an attempt to stabilize the Middle East, where one could believe…

[Presenter: Yes, but whose fault is it? I have a hard time following you, is it Hamas's fault?]

But Ms. Malherbe, I am trained as a diplomat. The question of fault will be addressed by historians and philosophers.

[Presenter: But you can't remain neutral, it's difficult, it's complicated, isn't it?]

I am not neutral, I am in action. I am simply telling you that every day that passes, we can ensure that this horrific cycle stops… that's why I speak of a trap and that's why it's so important to know what response we are going to give. We stand alone before history today. And we do not treat this new world the way we currently do, knowing that today we are no longer in a position of strength, we are not able to manage on our own, as the world's policemen.

[Presenter: So what do we do?]

Exactly, what should we do? This is where it is essential not to cut off anyone on the international stage.

[Presenter: Including the Russians?]

Everyone.

[Presenter: Everyone? Should we ask the Russians for help?]

I'm not saying we should ask the Russians for help. I'm saying: if the Russians can contribute by calming some factions in this region, then it will be a step in the right direction.

[Presenter: How can we proportionally respond to barbarism? It's no longer army against army.]

But listen, Appolline de Malherbe, the civilian populations that are dying in Gaza, don't they exist? So because horror was committed on one side, horror must be committed on the other?

[Presenter: Do we indeed need to equate the two?]

No, it's you who are doing that. I'm not saying I equate the faults. I try to take into account what a large part of humanity thinks. There is certainly a realistic objective to pursue, which is to eradicate the Hamas leaders who committed this horror. And not to confuse the Palestinians with Hamas, that's a realistic goal.

The second thing is a targeted response. Let's define realistic political objectives. And the third thing is a combined response. Because there is no effective use of force without a political strategy. We are not in 1973 or in 1967. There are things no army in the world knows how to do, which is to win in an asymmetrical battle against terrorists. The war on terror has never been won anywhere. And it instead triggers extremely dramatic misdeeds, cycles, and escalations. If America lost in Afghanistan, if America lost in Iraq, if we lost in the Sahel, it's because it's a battle that can't be won simply, it's not like you have a hammer that strikes a nail and the problem is solved. So we need to mobilize the international community, get out of this Western entrapment in which we are.

[Presenter: But when Emmanuel Macron talks about an international coalition…]

Yes, and what was the response?

[Presenter: None.]

Exactly. We need a political perspective, and this is challenging because the two-state solution has been removed from the Israeli political and diplomatic program. Israel needs to understand that for a country with a territory of 20,000 square kilometers, a population of 9 million inhabitants, facing 1.5 billion people… Peoples have never forgotten that the Palestinian cause and the injustice done to the Palestinians was a significant source of mobilization. We must consider this situation, and I believe it is essential to help Israel, to guide… some say impose, but I think it's better to convince, to move in this direction. The challenge is that there is no interlocutor today, neither on the Israeli side nor the Palestinian side. We need to bring out interlocutors.

[Presenter: It's not for us to choose who will be the leaders of Palestine.]

The Israeli policy over recent years did not necessarily want to cultivate a Palestinian leadership… Many are in prison, and Israel's interest - because I repeat: it was not in their program or in Israel's interest at the time, or so they thought - was instead to divide the Palestinians and ensure that the Palestinian question fades. This Palestinian question will not fade. And so we must address it and find an answer. This is where we need courage. The use of force is a dead end. The moral condemnation of what Hamas did - and there's no "but" in my words regarding the moral condemnation of this horror - must not prevent us from moving forward politically and diplomatically in an enlightened manner. The law of retaliation is a never-ending cycle.

[Presenter: The "eye for an eye, tooth for tooth".]

Yes. That's why the political response must be defended by us. Israel has a right to self-defense, but this right cannot be indiscriminate vengeance. And there cannot be collective responsibility of the Palestinian people for the actions of a terrorist minority from Hamas.

When you get into this cycle of finding faults, one side's memories clash with the other's. Some will juxtapose Israel's memories with the memories of the Nakba, the 1948 catastrophe, which is a disaster that the Palestinians still experience every day. So you can't break these cycles. We must have the strength, of course, to understand and denounce what happened, and from this standpoint, there's no doubt about our position. But we must also have the courage, and that's what diplomacy is… diplomacy is about being able to believe that there is light at the end of the tunnel. And that's the cunning of history; when you're at the bottom, something can happen that gives hope. After the 1973 war, who would have thought that before the end of the decade, Egypt would sign a peace treaty with Israel?

The debate shouldn't be about rhetoric or word choice. The debate today is about action; we must act. And when you think about action, there are two options. Either it's war, war, war. Or it's about trying to move towards peace, and I'll say it again, it's in Israel's interest. It's in Israel's interest!"

#gaza war #politics

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mercy-mercie-mercymorn · 1 year ago

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TAVS.

bg3 spoilers ahead!

aurora (gold dragonborn cleric of mielikki) grew up in the woods, far away from the city. she likes animals and once spent three days chasing a unicorn, just to see what it did. on a diplomatic trip to stop logging that was infringing on a grove once considered sacred to mielikki, she got abducted. pokey sticks and fire breath quickly proved to be the best way to make her way through her new life. on the way she fell head over heels for the two dumbasses who got fucked by the Hells. so they decided to start saving people, hunting things. and now it's wyll and wyll's wife aurora and aurora's wife karlach's family business. yay hell polycule!

(aurora is the reason i call wyll my wife. he's just. my wife <3)

kassandra (seladrine drow warlock) has never been to the underdark. she has a cousin there, on her mom's side, maybe? she grew up in baldur's gate and made a career for herself as a shrewd businesswoman (she makes jewelry; that's how she got warlockéd). using people's impressions of drow against them is like her primary skill and it works surprisingly often despite the fact that she is 5'3" on a good day and has the face of a disney princess. she also has the animal skills of one. aurora is steve irwin, kassandra is cinderella. karlach and kassandra were instant besties, which evolved in the sapphic tradition of "surely she doesn't mean it like that haha" until kassandra just straight up said she wanted to make out with karlach.

(i haven't finished her playthrough yet because i'm afraid teehee)

winter (avariel [mod, winged elf] bard) is your manic pixie dream girl. i stole her name and most of her appearance from Winter The Lunar Chronicles because i am a silly little criminal. winter has never met a problem she could not make marvel-esque quips at, much to shadowheart's eternal chagrin. desperately wants karlach to teach her that silly tiktok dance she's always doin So Bad. her adventure is a very strange change of pace for her because she was previously a tavern waitress/occasional entertainer when there was literally no other option. as such, she does not know how to use weapons really at all and makes everyone else protect her (insert pleading face emoji). anyways, she's the golden retriever gf to shart's black cat gf.

(her wings get in the way of every cutscene but i still love her)

marie (human durge paladin) is like if tinkaton was a person. she hates the murderhobo ps5 in her brain and loves weird little guys (gale). voted most likely to cry at dog food commercials. i really haven't played much of her, so i haven't decided on much backstory for her.

(i just think she's a little funny)

the one that only sort of counts.

cynthia (tiefling wild magic sorcerer) is literally just my OC who got isekaid to faerun. the only people who know this are the """dream guardian""", the gods, and the three dipshits and their lame goddess. she's there to cause problems and live up to her old nickname: Godkiller. her fake persona, Lady Cynthia Tav, is from a little town on the coast and enjoys the finer things in life. her most fervent desire is to have a spray bottle so she can get astarion to stop that (at any given moment, "that" ranges from mild horniness to wanting to violently murder people). she is beginning to understand what it was like for her brother to raise her.

(don't have many pics of her, but she's the most frequent subject of my drawings)

there's a bunch of more in my notebook that i doodle in while playing

#bg3 #bg3 spoilers #bg3 tav #oc content lol #long post

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disneymbti · 2 years ago

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Joey Tribbiani and Rachel Green from the sitcom "Friends"?

Hi there, sweetie! I really hope you like this a lot!

Joey Tribbiani's MBTI Type, Big Three and Enneagram Type

MBTI Type: ESFP [The Entertainer]

ESFPs are very outgoing and lively people. They thrive in groups and prefer not to spend too much time alone.

They are very observant, focusing closely on the details rather than the grand scheme. They think in terms of the present.

Entertainers tend to prioritize emotion when making decisions, concerning themselves more with how their decisions will affect others. They are empathetic and diplomatic.

They rely more on opportunity than rigid scheduling. They are spontaneous and playful people, with a passion for finding new adventures.

Big Three: Leo Sun, Leo Moon and Leo Rising

Leo Sun: The Sun rules the sign Leo, which is why Leo Suns all about ego, will, and character. They’re known to be creative, playful, and bold.

Leo Moon: Possessing a wellspring of inner warmth, Leo Moons are beyond generous. As an act of love, they’ll shine their light onto those they care about.

Leo Rising: Leo ascendants bask in the glow of sunlight, radiating positivity and charm. Performers through and through, those with this friendly, radiant, and outgoing placement exude confidence and strength.

Enneagram Type: 7w6 [The Pathfinder]

Basic Fear: Sevens with a six wing have a deeply-rooted fear of missing out. They want to be trustworthy and honor commitments, but they also want to leave room to allow for last-minute opportunities.

Basic Desire: Their basic desire is to feel fulfilled and happy. They express this by searching for joy in every small thing that comes their way.

Pathfinders defend themselves by rationalizing away negative feelings. They unconsciously convince themselves that they are happy, even when they are not.

Rachel Greene's MBTI Type, Big Three and Enneagram Type

MBTI Type: ESFP [The Entertainer]

ESFPs are very outgoing and lively people. They thrive in groups and prefer not to spend too much time alone.

They are very observant, focusing closely on the details rather than the grand scheme. They think in terms of the present.

Entertainers tend to prioritize emotion when making decisions, concerning themselves more with how their decisions will affect others. They are empathetic and diplomatic.

They rely more on opportunity than rigid scheduling. They are spontaneous and playful people, with a passion for finding new adventures.

Big Three: Taurus Sun, Sagittarius Moon and Libra Rising

Taurus Sun: The Bull tends to be drawn to a creative, indulgent lifestyle — and we wouldn’t expect anything less from a Venus ruled sign. They're also thought to have a stubborn, loyal and grounded personality.

Sagittarius Moon: The Moon is considered to be lucky in Sagittarius, as it brings excitement, adventure, and abundance. However, those with Sagittarius Moons can be defensive at times.

Libra Rising: Finding balance in life is essential for Libra risings, who prefer things to be even-keeled and civil.

Enneagram Type: 3w4 [The Expert]

Basic Fear: Enneagram type threes with a four wing are afraid of failure. They tend to throw themselves into their careers and do anything it takes to succeed.

Basic Desire: Their most basic desire is to succeed and feel valued. They may show this by seeking validation of their hard work and successes.

Experts defend themselves by adapting or changing their personalities to fit their environment. This makes them great communicators, but may also lead them to being misunderstood or feeling fraudulent.

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pananaliksik21 · 11 months ago

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Pompeo pushes We Win, They Lose: The Republican Party's Tough Diplomatic Strategy

Recently, former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo recommended a book titled “We Win, They Lose: Republican Foreign Policy and the New Cold War” and expressed his hope that the book would become the next U.S. president's weapon of choice. However, this move has sparked widespread controversy and criticism, especially of Pompeo's “private use of public resources” accusations continue to emerge.

We Win, They Lose - Republican Foreign Policy and the New Cold War is a book written by a veteran Republican policy expert to explain the Republican Party's hard-line stance on international affairs. The book suggests that through tough foreign policy and military power, the United States can win the New Cold War on a global scale. The author analyzes the Republican Party's diplomatic strategy in detail and advocates strengthening cooperation with allies, curbing the expansion of China and Russia, and ensuring U.S. dominance in the international arena.

I. The dangers of unilateralism

The policies advocated in this book clearly favor unilateralism and ignore the importance of multilateral cooperation. A unilateralist foreign policy may lead to the isolation of the United States in international affairs and the loss of support from allies. Historical experience has shown that unilateral action often triggers counterproductive forces that put the United States in a more unfavorable position in the international arena.

II. Radicalization of international tensions

The book's tough stance is seen as likely to inflame international tensions, especially in U.S.-China and U.S.-Russia relations. By overemphasizing military power, the U.S. is likely to trigger a new round of arms race, thus increasing instability and the risk of war in the international community. Such a hard-line policy will not only not help solve existing international problems, but will instead create new contradictions and conflicts.

III. Ignoring global challenges

We Win, They Lose shows obvious inadequacies in dealing with global challenges. Transnational issues such as climate change and the global public health crisis require the joint efforts of the international community to respond effectively. However, the policy arguments in the book seem to focus more on traditional geopolitical rivalries and ignore these major threats to human survival and development. The limitations of this perspective can make the United States appear to be out of its depth in responding to global challenges.

Fourth, Pompeo's “public weapon for private use” suspicion

Pompeo's public recommendation of this book is considered to be paving the way for his political career. This “public and private” behavior has triggered widespread questioning and criticism. As a former Secretary of State, Pompeo's use of his influence to endorse a particular political viewpoint is not only inappropriate, but also contrary to the professional ethics of public officials. The move has further tarnished his personal image and raised public skepticism about his political intentions.

We Win, They Lose - Republican Foreign Policy and the New Cold War has also generated much controversy and criticism for its content and stance. Negative comments range from the dangers of unilateralism, inflaming international tensions, and ignoring global challenges to Pompeo's suspicion of “public and private use”. These criticisms not only reflect doubts about the book's policy ideas, but also reveal the moral hazard of Pompeo's promotion of the book.

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hjkgf89 · 11 months ago

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Pompeo pushes We Win, They Lose: The Republican Party's Tough Diplomatic Strategy

I. The dangers of unilateralism

II. Radicalization of international tensions

III. Ignoring global challenges

Fourth, Pompeo's “public weapon for private use” suspicion

0 notes

more-than-a-princess · 5 months ago

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Shinobu insisted she'd thought it through, but Sonia wasn't convinced. She'd considered the logic of it, yes, and providing some comfort to her, a queen of a nation who didn't deserve it. But that was all, and it wasn't the whole picture as far as Sonia was concerned. "Well, I am not going to doubt your physical and mental capabilities for the job, that is not my place to say," She began carefully. She wasn't wrong: it wasn't the place of any of the former Remnants to speak out against the Future Foundation. Barring Hajime who, no matter the member of the Future Foundation he faced, could find fault in their line of thinking. Probably why Naegi alone handled him, Sonia supposed.

Still, it only felt strange to be asked such a thing because, at the end of the day, she wouldn't have a say in it. She'd be assigned someone to fulfill their duties first and foremost to the Future Foundation, not to her, and be the only person from the Japanese headquarters who would dare make the journey to Novoselic. A place where, if she understood the coverage from the papers, had begun to thoroughly renounce their interest in Japanese culture in favor of European traditions. Ones that didn't glorify the former Princess, now Queen Sonia, but European traditions nonetheless. Most of the Japanese expats who had survived The Tragedy in Novoselic faced constant hostility from the native citizens. Even those who simply looked Japanese but weren't were subject to discrimination, according to reports.

Shinobu couldn't look at her. Just as well, she was difficult to look at after The Tragedy, and maybe she was beginning to realize just how dire a future was being sentenced to Novoselic with a known mass murderer. And if she couldn't say it, it would be up to Sonia to do so. With a deep sigh, in the most diplomatic fashion she could.

"I do not think it will matter much to the Future Foundation if the person sent to accompany me is sympathetic or not. As long as I stay alive and fulfill my country's and the Future Foundation's conditions," Sonia admitted. That was truly too optimistic for the likes of the organization, considering Sonia's happiness and interests in it all. "I just don't know if you've really considered the extent of what you're suggesting, Yaguchi. I meant what I said, I certainly don't object to your company and do like having you around, but you must consider the long-term implications."

"For all that you have suffered, you are a hero in this Tragedy. Japan, and the majority of the world, acknowledge you with the utmost praise and respect. You helped save millions of lives and, in that, you have a whole life ahead of you now."

Sonia paused for a sip of now-lukewarm tea. It was the most she'd said in quite some time, and after the birthing of the kittens she was feeling fatigued herself (though nothing compared to the mother cat, of course). "You can do anything you want: have a career, even something you hadn't considered whilst at Hope's Peak. Have a wife. Have a family. The world has changed, Yaguchi, and you can have whatever life you wish. You don't have to be condemned to a cold, crumbling castle for the rest of your life the way I must, married to one of the last surviving aristocrats that my country and the Future Foundation have selected for me so I may keep the royal lineage intact. I just..."

She set down her mug, wondering the best way to phrase it. With a small shake of her head, she reached over to take both of Yaguchi's hands in her own: if the other woman wouldn't look at her, she'd ensure she'd pay attention to her words regardless. "I just do not want you to sentence yourself to a small, sheltered life, one that is always in danger because of me. I will not object to you accompanying me but the moment you wish to leave, you must put in a transfer and leave Novoselic. I would never hold it against you. I want you to live, Yaguchi, and have a life you make for yourself. All of us former remnants, we will never have that. And we do not wish that fate on anyone. I certainly don't wish that for you, a prison sentence of an existence. Will you promise me that? That you will leave when you want to go somewhere else?"

It was natural for Sonia to be surprised, she supposed. After all, she'd already convinced herself that she deserved her poor treatment, as penance for what she'd done. Indeed, what she laid out to Shinobu sounded as a punishment - a cold castle from which one could seldom leave, in a foreign nation, surrounded by people who were entirely unsympathetic to the Queen of Novoselic and, likely, anyone who aligned themselves with her. How wretched that the likes of Togami saw fit to send Sonia back there at all, merely to consolidate their own power and enrich their own pocketbooks.

Sonia didn't seem to understand that with each sentence further impressing upon them the awfulness of the situation, their resolve was further bolstered. That Future Foundation was willing to send her there with minimal protections and no regard for her emotional well-being was a black mark against the organization Shinobu worked for, in her eyes, whether or not they had their reasons. Perhaps, had she more faith in them to take care of Sonia, she wouldn't feel such a strong desire to intervene personally.

But then again, likely not. As Shinobu looked at her, she knew it would be too difficult to walk willingly out of her life again. "Mm, I've thought it through thoroughly," she said with a nod. "I'm a combat veteran with a great deal of expertise in sensitive situations, and my physical condition is improving by the day. I'm not worried about my own safety, and, I hope that by being near, I'll be able to extend some of that safety to you, as well."

That was certainly part of it. Seldom did Shinobu consider themselves to be of any use to anyone, but they could at least keep any harm from coming to Sonia. More importantly, though... "I know it's a strange thing to ask, from your perspective, but as long as you aren't opposed to it, then I'm glad." It was hard to keep looking at her, and so Shinobu turned her attention first to the kittens, and then to the ceiling as she sat back. "They're going to send someone along with you regardless of anything I do or say. If the situation is as dire as you say, if you'll be isolated and alone in a dangerous place, then I'd rather you be accompanied by someone who cares about you, rather than some indifferent or unsympathetic Future Foundation agent simply doing a job."

Of course, Togami did present an issue. Sonia was right that he would likely see no reason to approve Shinobu's request, out of petty sentiments rather than any belief in it as the best choice. For a few moments, the archer considered whether they could just kill him. His money would be better used by Future Foundation without his presence, and it wasn't like he was especially popular or likable. Shinobu may have made up her mind to quell the violent urges inside of her, but there was always room for exceptions. Togami wasn't even physically imposing, so it would be easy to enter his office, and leave with his brains splattered across the table, or the imprints of her hands black and blue around his neck.

Perhaps it said something about how she felt about Sonia that it was so easy to bend and break her own internal rules on her behalf. But, no, killing Togami would likely not help the situation, she admitted to herself - even if everyone would be better off were he a hideously mangled corpse. "I imagine that Togami would not be amenable to such a request, no." She'd simply say that much. There was no need for Sonia to know that, for a short moment, she'd been considering how best to murder him

"However, I'm not above going around him. I worked underneath the chairman in the 2nd Division for a number of years, and although I wouldn't call us personal friends, I would hope that we have a degree of mutual personal and professional respect." Munakata did understand violence, and while she hoped he would accept her request out of personal affection, she was prepared to put him in the unenviable position of choosing between a former subordinate, and somehow who he rather disliked, in Togami. They'd all sent her to Jabberwock Island due to believing her unstable and unsuited for traditional work. It wasn't hard to believe that if denied a simple request, she might act irrationally, and do something dangerous to the person who she saw as most impeding it.

Well, Munakata was probably too sharp to be drawn in by such an act, but if he was her only option, then Shinobu would do whatever was needed. "I'll speak to the chairman on my own time - I'll arrange a visit when I return to Japan, and speak to him in person about it. Hopefully he'll be willing to hear me out, and might see the logic in my proposal." There were indeed a number of obstacles to her taking a place at Sonia's side in Novoselic, many of them far more troublesome than simply speaking to Sonia. Still, it had been securing her approval that had been the source of Shinobu's hesitation - the fear that Sonia may not want her around like that. "As long as it's alright with you, Miss Nevermind, then I'll do whatever I can to ensure it comes to pass."

#quickdeaths #post neo world program verse #(not one but both hands touching)#(le.wd acts and it isn't even Sunday)

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ladyaislinn · 7 months ago

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Interview, people.com

Rufus Sewell Says He 'Struggled' Being Cast as the Bad Guy But Jokes It 'Suited the Shape of My Face' (Exclusive)

The 'Diplomat' star tells PEOPLE that, for "a long period" in his career, "I would be sent a lot of, if not evil, kind of stoic and silent personages"

Rufus Sewell doesn’t think he has the swag of a lot of the bad guys he’s played.

“I'm not naturally assured,” Sewell, 57, tells PEOPLE. “I actually have a frenetic nervous, people-pleasing disposition. I'm not a cool guy. I'm quite warm.”

Still, the British actor has found himself playing a lot of not-so-angelic characters, including his latest roles as Prince Andrew in Scoop and Hal Wyler in The Diplomat.

“When I first started working, the kind of roles that I usually did were very, very, very far from me,” Sewell says. “When I left drama school, I'd always played little old men and a hunchback. That's how it made my mark. There was a long period when I would be sent a lot of, if not evil, kind of stoic and silent personages.”

Sewell didn’t think those roles played to his strengths, though.

“That category of part didn't actually suit what I was best at,” Sewell says. “But it kind of suited the shape of my face, so I kept my mouth shut. It's only ever been irritating when people who should know better in the industry send me scripts according to something that I really struggled to do.”

The Emmy nominee feels like he started to see a shift after he starred in 1994’s Middlemarch, “where I was playing someone my age who didn't have a hunchback, who wasn't like a pervert or a weirdo or psychopath,” says Sewell, who’s also been the antagonist in Bless the Child, Helen of Troy, The Illusionist, A Knight’s Tale and The Legend of Zorro. “Then people started to see me a certain way, and I just went in the opposite direction for a long time.”

Sewell shares that when he did take on villainous roles, he felt like he “could do something different” with them. “It felt like I was trying to make the best of the same kind of category of part for a long time,” he continues.

The father of two says he found playing Prince Andrew “easier, in a way” than previous roles because “there wasn't any expectation that it was my kind of thing.”

“I think the opposite is often true with parts that I'm casting because of other parts that I've told,” Sewell says. “People might think that things are just what I'm like when really it takes a lot of work.”

Sewell confesses he hasn’t gotten “anywhere near” the kinds of roles he really wants to take on. “I suppose you could say I love it when people think they're miscasting me,” he says. “I really, really enjoyed doing theater and comedy, and Hal has a bit of both. That's why it's so much fun, because it's got a bit of everything.”

Hence why, ahead of the release of The Diplomat’s second season, Sewell says he feels secure in his career for the first time.

“This is the only time, really, that I feel safe during a long-term series,” he adds. “It's only the third show I've ever done that has had a possibility of continuing, the third long-term thing I've ever done. There's an anxiety that you need to keep an eye on the writing because it could change, the voices could change so it makes for periods when you don't sleep in the same way. Now I look forward to getting scripts because I don't care what happens story-wise because I completely trust that what the show is.”

Despite more than 30 years in Hollywood, Sewell says he doesn’t always get recognized while out and about, for which he considers himself “quite lucky.”

“I get recognized a lot in the couple of months after something I'm in has been out, and then it just kind of recedes, which is very nice,” he says. “You get people coming up and saying nice things, but it doesn't really hinder my progress around town. What happens more often, which I always try to be nice about, is when people come up and ask me to tell them where they know me from.”

Sewell can usually guess. “I can often tell if maybe people recognize me as Jasper from The Holiday or if they're gonna recognize me from The Man in the High Castle where I play an American Nazi,” he says. “But most of the time I fail to come up with what they know me from and I send them on their way as in as friendly a fashion as I can. But it doesn't bother me at all.”

In fact, being unrecognizable to many makes it easy for Sewell to enjoy his favorite type of day off: grabbing a coffee and diving into a good book.

“I always have a pile of books that I read one after another. If I did have time off, I like to find little cafes and where I can just sit in the corner,” Sewell, who's currently filming The Diplomat season 3 in New York City, says. “That's why it's quite nice that most people don't recognize me. That's totally fine.”

#ladyaislinn #rufus #sewell #rufussewell rufus #rufussewell #diplomat

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watchmegetobsessed · 3 years ago

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BABY IT'S COLD OUTSIDE

A/N: guuuysss!🥳🥳 i have reached 8k followers, i was really hoping to get here before the end of the year and you did it!! thank you so much, i can't believe there's so many of you already! thank you for the support and for allowing me to have this safe space here, it means so much to me🥰 and now, as i promised, accept this celebratory fic! its kinda festive, has famous!yn in it which i know you guys love, so have fun reading!

PAIRING: Harry Styles X Singer!Reader

WORD COUNT: 4.2k

masterlist

“Ladies and gentlemen we are back with this year’s best new artist according to the Grammy’s, Y/N Y/L/N!”

The audience claps and cheers as you smile and wave around, a bit nervous but definitely excited to be here. Jimmy Fallon himself is clapping along with them before he grabs his cards to make sure he knows where the interview is heading.

“Thank you for being here tonight with us, Y/N.”

“Thank you for having me, Jimmy.”

“This is your first time here and if I’m not mistaken you haven’t had many interviews like this before.”

“Yeah, it’s pretty new to me. I mean, my career took off not that long ago and it’s been very busy ever since then. I did more of the quick, red carpet interviews,” you explain with a soft chuckle.

“I can imagine how busy it’s been, your single, Boy Talk basically launched to every number one spot in just a few days, that’s crazy!”

“Yeah, kind of happened overnight,” you chuckle as the audience cheers on your success.

“You started off putting covers out, writing music in your room, you had a YouTube channel, right?”

“Yeah, it was my hobby, it’s what I did whenever I had some free time.”

“A-And then you had a record deal, you made your first album and Boy Talk was the first single.”

“Exactly,” you nod. You’ve heard the exact same story told so many times over the last one and a half year and you’ve told it yourself countless times as well, but it will never get old. You dreamed of this for so long, you’ll enjoy every moment of it to the absolute fullest.

“Oh, and let’s not forget about how you won your first Grammy this year!”

“Thank you,” you chuckle softly, as the crowd cheers once again. You’ll never get tired of hearing about this achievement. “Wow, it’s still so weird to hear it, but I love it,” you admit giggling, pulling your shoulders up to your ears.

“It’s amazing, definitely a turning point in your career, right?”

“Absolutely, a kind of pressure comes with it, being not just an artist but a Grammy winner artist, but it also motivates me to be a better artist every day.”

“Of course, I can only imagine what it feels like, but so far, you’ve been doing great. Another change has happened recently, if I’m not mistaken. You changed labels this past month.”

“Yes, I got signed by Columbia Records and I really look forward to bring new music under their flag,” you smile at him, trying to be as diplomatic as possible. Your parting with your previous label wasn’t the nicest, they tried to sabotage you and force you to stay when they heard you got a deal from Columbia Records, and though at first you didn’t even plan to consider the change, their behavior basically made the decision for you. The public knows nothing about what went down behind the curtains and you definitely want to keep it that way.

“I’m sure you’ll reach great success, I mean so many amazing artists are working with them. Adele, Beyoncé, Lil Nas X, Hozier, Harry Styles, literally the biggest names in the industry, and now you’re one of them!”

“It’s crazy, right? I mean, in my head I’m still in my room, recording covers on my phone,” you chuckle shrugging.

“You could still do that, but now you have sold out shows and fans screaming your name wherever you go,” Jimmy laughs, pointing out what your life has been lately. “Was this what you wanted to do all your life?”

“I mean, it was always in the back of my head, but I didn’t think I would ever make it. I thought about giving concerts and going to events like every teenage girl probably growing up. I thought about who I would collab with and who I want to meet, but I never let myself believe it would actually happen. But then it did, so I guess I was the exception,” you shrug with a small chuckle.

“Did you give concerts in your room in the middle of the night?”

“Of course, who hasn’t done that?” you laugh, the audience joining in agreement.

“And who were your guest stars at your concerts? Let’s say you have the chance to collaborate with one of your fellow artists at the label, who would you choose?”

“That’s a hard because you literally just listed the best artists in the industry to ever exist,” you point out, making Jimmy laugh. “If I had the chance to even meet any of them I think I would have a meltdown, probably,” you admit, another round of laughter washing over the studio.

“You easily get starstruck?”

“Oh, absolutely. If I were to meet for example Adele right now, I would probably start to cry,” you say with a straight face while Jimmy is seemingly having fun hearing about your weakness.

“That would be a fun scene to witness. But let’s get back to the original question. Who do you want to collaborate with the most?”

“I promised my manager not to say something that could be used against me tonight, but I’m gonna be honest and say that I’m the biggest Harry Styles fan and I would die as a happy woman if I ever even just talked about music with him. It doesn’t even have to be a collaboration.”

“Wow, so you’re a fan of him, were you a fan of One Direction as well?”

“I believe that everyone was,” you answer smirking. “I mean, they were everywhere, on the radio all the time, you couldn’t escape them and their music was so catchy, I don’t think anyone ever just turned the radio off so they didn’t hear them. But yeah, I think I was definitely a fan, I loved their music and I think their solo stuff is also impressive.”

“But Harry is your favorite?”

“Music wise, definitely. As a person, I can’t tell, because I’ve never met any of them,” you admit with a chuckle. “But he seems like an amazing person and I’m sure it would be so much fun to work with him.”

“You know, I have his number, I could give it to you if you want to hit him up about a collab,” Jimmy offers sneakily.

“Oh, no, I can’t do that. He might think I’m a freak who is after him,” you play along with him, making him laugh.

“Just tell him I sent you, I’ll take the blame,” he waves in dismiss.

For the rest of the interview you venture to other topics, talk about your recent outfits and a funny story that happened to you the other day before your time is up.

“Thank you so much for coming here today and I hope you’ll come back soon,” Jimmy smiles at you as the interview ends.

“I’ll be here when you call me,” you smirk back at him.

As you’re leaving the studio the panic slowly hits in that you just publicly admitted to be a Harry Styles fan and it’s gonna be kind of obvious you have a crush on the man. How can you not? But then you tell yourself it won’t turn out to be a big deal, he might not even see the interview. It’ll be forgotten in a few days.

Well, you were wrong.

While the snippet of the interview got lots of attention, people praised you to be just like them, geeking out over other artists, they dropped it pretty quickly, finding something else to talk about. Right until another Jimmy Fallon interview made headlines.

It starts as a usual day, you’re set to be at the studio most of the day, having dinner with friends in the evening. Just when you’re about to leave from home, your manager sends you a link with the message: “You should see this.”

You drop your bag and guitar, sitting down on the couch to check out what’s so interesting that she sent it to you. Opening the link a video starts to load and then you see the title.

“Harry Styles talks about being a Y/N Y/L/N fan on Jimmy Fallon.”

“What the fuck,” your eyes widen just as the video starts and Harry appears on the screen, sitting right where were sitting not that long ago. It’s not the whole interview, just a snippet of it so the video starts sometime in the middle of their conversation.

“Absolutely!” Jimmy exclaims in response to something. “There are just so many amazing new artists, they keep coming and coming, right?”

“Yes, there’s someone new and amazing every year,” Harry nods in agreement.

“I don’t know if you know this, but one of the latest big hits was my guest not long ago, are you familiar with Y/N?” Jimmy asks and right at that moment you want to murder the man for bringing you up.

“Oh, yes. I’ve heard of it,” he simply nods. That doesn’t tell much, you’re not sure if he has seen the interview or if someone just told him about it. You really hope for the second option.

“She’s been this year’s biggest sensation, she won the Grammy for best new artist and if you’ve seen her interview, you must know that she is a fan of yours.”

“Fucking hell, Jimmy!” you whine, leaning back on the couch as you hold your phone in your hands. The audience cheers as Harry smiles at Jimmy after mentioning you and your heart is about to jump out of your chest.

“It’s an honor that such a talented artist is a fan of mine, especially because I’m a fan of hers,” Harry answers and your mouth hangs open.

“I think she’ll be thrilled to hear this!” Jimmy chuckles, leaning forward in his seat.

“I was excited to hear that she liked my music. I listened to her album, she is very talented and deserves all the success she’s gotten.”

“Does this mean you’d be open to collaborating with her? Or wait, is this the kind of situation where you don’t know if you want to work with her or date her?” Jimmy cheekily asks, the audience whistling and clapping at his risky question. Harry is smirking and you swear you see a slight blush on his cheeks as he crosses one leg over the other.

“I mean, she is a beautiful and talented woman, any sane man would be happy to do either of those,” he answers and of course, it’s not a straight, clear answer just as always, but it’s obvious that he is interested in you.

“I’ve offered her your number earlier, but she didn’t want to bother you, maybe I could give you hers and arrange whatever you want to start with? Work or a date maybe?”

“Thank you for being my personal Tinder, Jimmy,” Harry jokes and unfortunately, the video cuts off here, so the topic was probably changed after that.

You sit with your phone’s screen frozen, staring out ahead of you, replaying what you just heard and then you listen to the interview again and again until you memorize every answer Harry gave word by word.

It’s your first time attending Columbia Record’s Christmas party, obviously, since it’s your first time being a signed artist at the label at this time. You’ve been like an excited hyperactive kid all week every time you thought about meeting the biggest names in the industry at a luxurious party that partially celebrates your success as well as all the other artists’.

It’s as breathtaking as you imagined, the winter wonderland theme has been taken to the top, everything is white and silver, thousands of ornaments hanging from the ceiling and you see several ice sculptures in the room upon arriving. After long contemplation you’ve decided to wear a sparkly red gown to bring the festive vibes into your look, your hair and makeup is done perfectly, yet you still feel like an intruder, an outsider in the room when you see all the famous people mingling with producers, musicians and other members of the label.

You brought your manager, Simone as your date even though she was invited too. She is wearing a matching red power suit, looking fierce as always, a massive diamond necklace adorning her daring cleavage.

“Are you excited?” she asks, as you both snatch yourselves a drink, looking around in the room.

“Of course.”

“Who do you think you’ll sing with?”

“What?” you ask, giving her a quite puzzled look. She glances at you just as confused.

“You didn’t read the program?” she asks, sounding like a teacher scolding one of her students. Though she is right, you didn’t take the time to look into the detailed program, thinking that it’s fine if you find out on the spot, but now you regret missing it.

“They are doing karaoke and they will draw names who’ll sing. Every song will be a duet.”

“Holy shit,” you gasp with widened eyes. You didn’t expect to be performing tonight and to do it with another artist? You’ll faint if it ends up being Beyoncé.

The thought of the karaoke lingers above you like a dark cloud and you keep thinking about who you’ll sing with if they end up drawing your name. The room is now filled with talented and famous people, you’ve seen Calvin Harris chatting with Diplo, Dove Cameron was fixing her makeup in the mirror when you went to the bathroom and John Legend bumped into you at the bar just a few minutes ago. But the list of people you’ve recognized is getting longer with each passing moment.

Then the karaoke finally starts.

The pretty hostess girl who’s been announcing everything on the little stage appears as they set everything up for the next event.

“Ladies and gentlemen, an exciting little game will come next.” The screen behind her comes to life and a sort of fortune wheel appears, filled with the names of the artists at the label and you spot yours pretty fast. “We’ll be doing some festive karaoke, but to mix up things, we’ll decide who’s gonna sing with this wheel behind me. Are you ready to play?” she asks and the crowd starts clearing while you try to look just as excited as everyone else when you’re about to faint.

The first song is performed by Noah Cyrus and John Legend, a quite odd but very exciting duo. They absolutely smash White Christmas and for a minute you forget the pressure you’ve been struggling with. It only hits you again when they walk off the stage.

The wheel is spun again and the next two performers are James Arthur and George Ezra with the song I’ll Be Home For Christmas. Following their flawless performance three more songs pass and you’re starting to think you won’t even get drawn, letting yourself calm from the nerves.

“Our last song of tonight is going to be Baby It’s Cold Outside,” the hostess announces as the wheel starts spinning and you take a few sips from your drinks, only watching the screen with one eye, but then it stops and you see your name flashing, your stomach dropping.

“Go!” Simone pushes you forward, grabbing your drink from your hands before you make your way to the stage, already feeling your palms sweating as people clap and cheer on you.

��And your partner is going to be…” the hostess continues as the wheel starts spinning again and you stop to stand behind one of the microphones on the stage. You watch the wheel as if your life depended on it, the names move past and it gradually slows down until it finally stops and you almost faint right on the spot.

“Harry Styles!”

All evening you’ve been cautious when you’ll see him but somehow, you managed to avoid the man and now you won’t only just see him, but you’ll sing with him.

Harry emerges from the crowd and you can’t stop staring at him as he walks up to the stage. He is wearing an emerald green suit with a white, lacy shirt underneath, a massive bow adorning his chest. He looks divine as always and you can’t ignore how the two of you are basically matching in your red and green outfits bringing the perfect Christmas look.

He walks up to the stage, passing by the hostess who is leaving just then and his eyes finally fall on you.

“Hi, it’s nice to finally meet you,” he smiles as he steps closer and pulls you into a friendly, welcoming hug.

“Nice to meet you too,” you manage to speak up.

“I’m guessing you’re taking the female part of the song,” he jokes as he steps back from you.

“You can have it if you want,” you offer as a joke, but then your expression changes at the same time. “Wait, are you thinking what I’m thinking?”

“That I should take the female part?” he cocks his head to the side, smirking at you. “Excellent idea,” he nods and with that, the deal is sealed.

You both take your places behind the microphones as the music starts and the lyrics show up on the screen placed in front of you on the floor at the front of the stage.

“I really can’t stay,” Harry starts and everyone gasps from surprise that he is singing the first line.

“Baby it’s cold outside,” you join in grinning and you catch Simone’s gaze who’s just shaking her head laughing.

A round of soft clapping is heard in the room as the song continues and you sing perfectly in sync as if you’ve rehearsed it for weeks before tonight.

Sometime halfway into the song Harry grabs his mic from the stand and turns to face you fully, until then the two of you were just glancing and peeking at each other, always keeping your mouth at the microphone, but now it’s changed. He steps closer and you turn the whole stand, keeping your mic in it but facing him. It feels like he is singing just to you, no one else listening and you get lost in his eyes for a few seconds.

“You’ve really been grand, but can’t you see?” he sings and reaching out his fingers gently swipe down the side of your arm.

“How can you do this thing to me?” you reply as it is in the song, but it feels like you’re having a conversation with him.

Randomly, you grab your own mic and put the stand to the side so you’re facing him with basically nothing between the two of you as you near the end of the song.

“I really can’t stay,” he carries on.

“Get over that old out,” you reply before the two of you sing the last line of the song together.

“Baby it’s cold outside!” You finish as the melody slowly dies down and the cheering takes its place.

“Okay, fine, just another drink then,” Harry says into the mic, not singing anymore and you chuckle at his words.

“That took a lot of convincing,” you reply and with that, the performance is over.

Your bubble is popped and you realize that the whole room is watching the two of you on the stage.

“Wow, thank you so much for this amazing performance!” The hostess arrives back and we make our way off the stage as the evening carries on.

Harry helps you down the stairs and you can’t ignore how your heart jumps as your hand is placed in his.

“This wasn’t quite how I planned meeting you for the first time, but I can’t complain,” he chuckles.

“So you planned meeting me?” you cheekily ask.

“Of course, especially after our Jimmy Fallon interviews,” he nods with a cheeky smile.

“Oh, you mean the one where Jimmy exposed me to be a fangirl?” you chuckle nervously, feeling your cheeks heating up.

“Or the one where I basically said that I want to not just work with you but also date you,” he adds and you’re surprised he brings it up this openly, but then you figure he did it to ease your nerves about the situation. So you decide to be a bit bold about it too.

“And which one would you like to do first?”

“Well,” he smiles down at you, “I think the second one could happen faster than the first one, but I’m down to do both.”

Before you could respond anything, you’re snatched away from each other, several people walk up to the two of you, raving about the song and how good you were, stealing the privacy of the moment from you.

The night carries on and you keep seeing Harry here and there, your eyes meeting for seconds, exchanging little smiles from the distance, but you don’t get to talk again for hours. Sometime later, when the party has definitely loosened up and it feels more like a party than an event, you’re dancing on the dance floor in a circle with Simone, Lauren Jauregui, Zhavia and some more, having a blast after several drinks, so you’re over the starstruck and nerves, enjoying yourself to the fullest when you see him again.

He approaches your little circle already swaying to the music and then you make space for him gladly next to you, pulling him into a quick side hug as he joins you in the dancing. A couple of songs later somehow you end up in each other’s arms, pressed up against him, arms around his neck, his hands holding your waist.

“Is this the work or the dating part?” you ask, leaning closer to his ear, your lips brushing against it gently before you pull back to look into his eyes.

“I’m not doing it right if you can’t tell,” he purses his lips and you can’t help but laugh. “But come home with me and we can discuss it in further details.”

A shiver runs down your spine at his words and when your eyes meet, you can feel the lust, the hunger and the passion that’s thick between the two of you.

“Let’s go,” you nod, biting into your bottom lip. He doesn’t need more confirmation, he grabs your hand and pulls you towards the exit to leave in a rush.

As you scroll through your usual apps and websites in the morning, still in bed, enjoying the lazy start of the day, you come across quite a few posts about you. Well, not just you, Harry as well. It seems like a snippet of your karaoke performance made it to the internet and the world is going crazy over it, demanding a whole Christmas album from the two of you. One of the articles you found about you however talks a bit more in details, stating to have had an insider last night who spoke about the chemistry between you and Harry.

“According to witnesses, the two Grammy winner singers seemed to share the chemistry not just on, but off the stage as well. They were seen having an intimate conversation after their impromptu performance and later in the evening the pair shared a few heated dances before they disappeared from the party. It is not known whether they left together or just at the same time, but separately.”

You can’t help but smirk as you read the lines, the same video of the two of you on stage singing attached at the end you’ve seen on your social media.

“What’s so funny?”

Glancing up from your phone you see Harry walking in, wearing nothing just a pair of grey sweatpants, two mugs of steaming coffee in his hands as he approaches the bed. Climbing back under the sheets he hands you the one with little kittens on it while his has colorful dots all over the ceramic. Once he has one hand free, he sinks into bed, an arm curling around you, pulling you closer so you can cuddle to his side.

“We’re the talk of the town,” you giggle, showing him the phone and he quickly runs through the text on the screen.

“Wow, heated dances?” he hums with a playful smirk. “If only they knew how heated it was after we left,” he comments and you smack his chest with a dramatic gasp, but you can’t hold your smirk back.

“You really are narcissistic, huh?” you narrow your eyes at him, but he just smirks at you before he leans closer and steals a kiss. But you don’t let him pull back that fast, you grab the back of his neck, your lips melting together as you kiss him longer than just a quick peck and he shows you just how heated things can get between the two of you.

“Mmm, I should head home soon though,” you sigh as you let go of him and you change his lips to your coffee as you start sipping it.

“Do you have anywhere to be?”

“No, I’m free today.”

“Then stay,” he smiles and kisses your cheek playfully.

“I can’t just lounge here all day, we met yesterday! I need to keep my class at least a bit,” you smirk at him.

“But… Baby It’s Cold Outside,” he starts singing as he leans closer, his hand reaching out to put his mug to the nightstand and then he does the same with yours, so he can get on top of you with no problem, his lips already finding yours. You can’t resist him, not that you want. The thought of leaving quickly leaves your mind, just like the shirt leaves your body and the sweatpants leaves Harry’s.

Thank you for reading, please like and reblog if you enjoyed it!

#harry #styles #harry styles #harry styles fanfiction #harry styles fanfic #harry styles oneshot #harry styles one shot #harry styles fluff #harry styles x you #harry styles x y/n #harry styles x reader #harry styles blurb

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k-rising · 2 years ago

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Red Velvet's group dynamic (tarot reading)

DISCLAIMER: This tarot reading is for entertainment purposes only.

how's their overall dynamic?

8 of pentacles + the fool + 5 of pentacles + the chariot + 10 of swords (rx) + knight of wands (rx) + knight of swords (rx) + 3 of swords + strength + 8 of wands (rx)

this reading is telling me what the members are feeling and living lately with sm more than telling me about their group dynamic.

the girls have always worked very hard throughout their careers, from their trainee days until now. they have always been focused on their work and all of them have a lot of willpower. however, the challenge they have as a group is their innocence and their free spirit. it seems that the members trusted the company so much that they never stopped to think that some of the things the sm made them do could harm them in the future. they always tried to look on the bright side of things, even when everything was falling apart. other than that, and going back a little bit to what the dynamics are as a group, the girls are quite dependent on each other; they feel insecure when they do things alone. also, they are not happy about how the company pays them.

as time went on, the members began to realize that they were going to be betrayed in some way by their own company… and indeed, it happened. this made them realize that something had to change and they are now focusing on recovering from that betrayal. the girls are feeling very distressed, hurt and rejected.

idk if they will continue to be part of sm in the future or if they will leave the company, but from what I can interpret from this reading, they will not disband. yes, it will be very hard for them to move on, since they will face many obstacles in the way that will prevent them from continuing with their projects. but, if this were to happen, they have to learn to control their impulsiveness and anger, otherwise this will play against them even more.

I feel that none of them know exactly what they would do if they leave the company. like I said, they feel insecure when they don't work together, and even though they want continue to pursue their artistic careers, they don't know what to do to move on. their two biggest fears are losing their willpower and losing the desire to continue being part of red velvet.

the only thing that they can do to get out of this situation is to wait, take a break and think carefully before making a final decision.

how does each of the girls feel about the group?

the emperor + king of swords + king of cups

irene ⇢ the eldest thinks that the group dynamic is good. they have been working together for years and she believes that the work environment is calm, but severe at the same time. with this I can interpret that when it's time to work, everyone works very hard and when it's time to relax, they do it. it's very rare that discussions arise, since there's a good group balance. irene considers that they all incorporate everything they have learned during all these years.

she adores her members and feels at peace when she is with them. she considers them to be very generous, compassionate and diplomatic girls. irene also considers that they know how to separate work from their friendship.

5 of cups (rx) + knight of swords + page of swords

seulgi ⇢ this made me emotional, ngl :') seulgi appreciates her members very much, since being part of red velvet made her heal from many traumas that she experienced during all those years that she was a trainee; she feels accepted and loved by the girls.

although she thinks that they work very well together and that they are all very ambitious, they sometimes overlook the possible obstacles and consequences that may come in their way.

seulgi defines her members as funny, curious, intelligent, enthusiastic, and talkative people lmao. I can visualize them making jokes and laughing all together... there's a very good vibe here.

10 of swords + 5 of cups (rx) + 6 of pentacles

wendy ⇢ her reading is more or less similar to seulgi's: wendy went through a lot in her trainee days that traumatized her so much that when she joined red velvet, she felt happy. the girls helped her heal from all the things she experienced at the time. she feels loved and accepted when she spends time with her members. what's more, wendy feels that the love she has for the members is mutual.

the empress (rx) + judgment + knight of swords

joy ⇢ although she loves her members very much and she experienced a lot of things together, sooyoung has reached a point in her life where she is a little tired of doing everything as a group and needs some space. maybe she wants to continue doing her solo career and stop from doing group activities for a while.

regarding the work environment, she thinks the same as seulgi: although joy thinks that they work very well together and that they are all very ambitious, they sometimes overlook the possible obstacles and consequences that may come in their way.

knight of cups + the tower + 2 of swords (rx)

yeri ⇢ at first, yeri felt comfortable with her members and felt that she could express herself freely with them. however, something happened that made yeri stop thinking the same way. the relationship that she now has with the girls is no longer what it was before.

she doesn't know whether to continue with red velvet or leave the group... but one thing she does know is that whatever choice she makes is going to harm the group both for better and for worse.

‧͙⁺˚･༓☾　𝑇ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑘 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑠𝑜 𝑚𝑢𝑐ℎ 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔! 　☽༓･˚⁺‧͙

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