#g7 members

[zvaigzdelasas]

are you placing any bets on the new name if BRICS expands?

almost certainly "BRICS+"

[jiisoooo]

Magic Man in Toronto!!!! 🥰🥰🥰

[xtruss]

BRICS Summit in Xiamen, Southeastern China's Fujian Province on September 5, 2017. © Mark Schiefelbein/POOL/AFP

Dmitry Trenin: The Founder Members of BRICS Face a Historic Decision as They Attempt to Reshape the World Order

Expanding the membership and working towards financial independence from the West are two important challenges to be discussed at the Johannesburg summit

— Monday August 21th, 2023

Never has the BRICS group attracted so much interest around the world as in the run-up to the 15th leaders’ summit this week in Johannesburg.

This in itself shows the growth of the bloc's importance since its first gathering – at the level of economics ministers – on the margins of the St. Petersburg Economic Forum in 2006, and the initial proper summit in Ekaterinburg in 2009.

About 20 countries are reportedly seeking admission to the five-member organization and the list of countries that will be represented at the meeting in South Africa is three times as long. This is a sign of the times and points to two things: the yearning of many non-Western nations to become more consequential to how the world is run, and the growing pushback against self-serving Western dominance in global politics, economics, finance, and the media.

This does not mean, however, that BRICS (an acronym made up of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) will have an easy run in reshaping the world order. Ahead of the Johannesburg summit, two issues emerged as the main challenges to the group’s further evolution. One is expanding membership. A number of countries from all over the globe have lined up at BRICS' door, ready to walk in. These include Algeria, Argentina, Bangladesh, Belarus, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cuba, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Going for a big-bang enlargement would be a loud statement, to the effect that an alternative to the US-led system of alliances and partnerships is being built. However, the question is would such an expansion make a much more diversified BRICS immediately stronger or not?

Within BRICS itself, views on enlargement differ. Yet, there is a model that can prove useful. Another non-Western group, with some of the same participant states, did manage the enlargement issue without diluting effectiveness. This was the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, which started with Russia, China, and three Central Asian states. Over time, the SCO has found a formula for categories of participating countries and criteria-cum-processes for admitting new full members. The organization was able to extend its full membership to India and Pakistan, Uzbekistan and Iran, with a number of others in line for admission. If the SCO approach is adopted by BRICS, this could be a solution.

The other challenge for the bloc is coming up with new financial instruments to reduce the non-Western economies’ dependence on the dollar. Washington’s weaponization of its currency in its Hybrid War against Russia and its concurrent manipulation of trade and technology against China have made the issue urgent. Western restrictions have hampered the activities of the BRICS’ New Development Bank. Calls have been made for the group to create a common currency, to break the dollar's monopoly in world finance. Yet, it is self-evident that creating a reserve currency for five very different economies, of which China accounts for two-thirds of the combined nominal GDP of the group, will run up against the jealously guarded principle of national sovereignty. The original goal of achieving financial independence will not be met.

A more practical way would be to improve the currently growing practice of using national currencies in trade between BRICS countries. The yuan and ruble account for more than half of Sino-Russian commercial turnover; Russia accepts the rupee for the oil it ships to India; Brazil trades in yuan with China; and so on. While these transactions have the merit of being free from third-country interference, they can and do incur costs, due to the problems with convertibility of some currencies, their limited use outside the issuing country, and the instability of the exchange rate. These are the issues that need to be addressed. While a BRICS currency is still a long way off, it would make more sense to work on improving the system of international payments and settlements within the group.

BRICS is often compared to the G7. Yet, although is some ways the comparison can be justified, the two groups are fundamentally different in their ambition, structure, and evolution. The G7 is politically, economically and ideologically homogenous, while BRICS is rich in diversity on all counts; the G7 is essentially led by the United States, with the others, the ex-great powers, unquestionably accepting that leadership, whereas in BRICS, China’s economic weight does not translate into a Beijing hegemony. The G7 is globalist in the sense of seeking to project its models and morals on the rest of the world, and BRICS countries are wholly focused on their national sovereignty. At the same time, the G7 is clearly exclusive, with the West sitting clearly above the rest, while BRICS is just the opposite: it embraces the diversity of different civilizations and cultures.

The G7’s role is to preserve the old order in which the West is dominant; the BRICS members’ ambition is to build elements of a new, more diversified and better-balanced world order – first of all among themselves and then to further impact the evolution of the world system. BRICS is not an attempt to create a zero-sum alliance. It is the core of what one can call the World Majority that aims at development rather than dominance. The going will be hard and not unopposed but, with more pieces to the puzzle affixed, the foundation of a more open and inclusive world order will eventually emerge.

— Dmitry Trenin is a research professor at the Higher School of Economics and a lead research fellow at the Institute of World Economy and International Relations. He is also a member of the Russian International Affairs Council.

[savagegood]

@shinjiroatae1126: To all my fans, today was a very special day for me. For years, I struggled to accept a part of myself...But now, after all I have been through, I finally have the courage to open up to you about something. I am a gay man. It has taken me a long time to be able to say I am gay. I could not even say it to myself. However, I’ve come to realize it is better, both for me, and for the people I care about, including my fans, to live life authentically than to live a life never accepting who I truly am. I hope people who are struggling with the same feeling will find courage and know they are not alone.

ps, he’s released a new song, “into the light”, which you can watch here. part of the proceeds from the single will go to lgbtq+ organisations

@shinjiroatae1126: July 26th, 2023 was a big day for me. I finally gathered the courage to come out to the public as a gay man. I am grateful to have received media coverage from multiple platforms both within Japan and overseas.

To be honest, I was extremely anxious before all of this happened. However, I've been pleasantly surprised to discover the overwhelming amount of positive feedback pouring in from both my fans and people who have come across the news about me. It's heartwarming to see that my story is being acknowledged from all around the world, and this brings me immense joy. Although they may be baby steps, I sense that this world is gradually moving into the light. Yesterday, I made an announcement about resuming my career as an artist. I also released a new song titled “Into The Light”. The music video for the song is also on YouTube now. This song is packed with the emotions and thoughts leading up to this point, including my decision to come out. Living with anxieties and struggles is not limited to just LGBTQ+ individuals. I hope this song can be a source of encouragement for anyone carrying such emotions. I've aimed for it to become a song that can uplift those with similar feelings. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Pride House Tokyo, Japan’s first permanent LGBTQ+ center, and ReBit, an organization providing resources and support for LGBTQ+ youth. I hope this song will touch many hearts.🙏🌈

At first, there was total silence. Then, there were shrieks, wild applause, weeping and shouts of “I love you!”

Fans of Shinjiro Atae, a J-pop idol who has been on a nearly two-year performance hiatus, had come to hear him talk about “the challenge of my life.” Standing onstage in a dark auditorium in front of 2,000 fans in central Tokyo on Wednesday night, he revealed something he has kept hidden for most of his life: He is gay.

“I respect you and believe you deserve to hear this directly from me,” he said, reading from a letter he had prepared. “For years, I struggled to accept a part of myself. But now, after all I have been through, I finally have the courage to open up to you about something. I am a gay man.”

Such an announcement is extremely unusual in conservative Japan, the only G7 country that has not legalized same-sex unions. Earlier this summer, the Japanese Parliament passed an L.G.B.T.Q rights bill but it had been watered down by the political right, stating that there “should be no unfair discrimination” against gay and transgender people.

In making a public declaration, the 34-year-old Mr. Atae, who spent two decades performing with AAA, a hit Japanese pop group, before embarking on a solo career, said he wanted his fans to know his true self. He also hopes to comfort those who might be grappling with anxieties about their sexuality.

“I don’t want people to struggle like me,” he said.

AAA debuted in 2005, with Mr. Atae, the youngest member, forgoing high school. He performed mostly as a dancer, and began appearing in TV series and movies.

His sexuality perplexed him. “It was a time when on TV, comedians would say two men kissing was gross,” he said. If anyone asked if he had a girlfriend, he just said he was too busy working.

Activists said they could not recall an instance when a Japanese pop star of his stature had publicly declared they were gay, because of anxieties about losing fans or sponsors.

“I think he has decided to come out in order to change Japan,” said Gon Matsunaka, a director and adviser to Pride House Tokyo, a support center for the gay and transgender community.

The decision to open up about his sexuality, he said, evolved over seven years of living in Los Angeles, where he saw how freely gay couples could show affection in public and built an extensive support network.

“Everyone was so open,” he said. “People would talk about their vulnerabilities. In Japan, people think it’s best not to talk about those things.”

Mr. Atae’s decision, he said, was not political.  All he wanted, he said, was to “normalize” being gay. Coming out, he knew, would likely draw criticism. “Whatever you do, there will be haters,” he said. “I can only focus on the people I might be helping.”

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

twst jp sept 2023 schedule~

Early September

🏖️ Lost in the Book with Stitch continues with its final update (with part 4 and 5)! 🏝️🦈 SSR Beachwear Floyd and 🏝️♥️ SR Beachwear Ace banner rate up is ongoing~ The groovies and vignettes for this event’s cards are unlocked on the 8th.

🐉 Book 7 part 5 main story update!

Mid-September

🤵‍♂️🐍 Jamil Birthday Campaign featuring SSR Platinum Jacket Jamil! The Broomquet Jamil birthday card will also be rerunning. This marks a new series of birthday cards for TWST’s 4th year: the Platinum Jacket line, whose poses are likely to be the same as what is seen in the Disney 100 merch artwork.

🥛 A new Master Chef event!! The main ingredient this time around is milk, and the two boys cooking will be 👨‍🍳🦁 SR Apprentice Chef Leona and 👨‍🍳🍎 SR Apprentice Chef Epel! You can get one of your choice for free by playing the event and trading in tokens for a key.

Late September

🤵‍♂️♥️ Ace Birthday Campaign featuring SSR Platinum Jacket Ace! The Broomquet Ace birthday card will also be rerunning. (Side note: this is also when we’ll probably see if the pattern for the frames in the background continues; will they show how the Great 7 member the featured boy is in the dorm of OR it will show the Disney character or inspiration for the featured boy??? Or something else entirely??? Jamil’s card featured Jafar, both the G7 of his dorm and his own character inspiration, so it was unclear which pattern is correct.)

🌺🎭 Glorious Masquerade rereun!! … HOLY SHIT WE MANIFESTED HIM 😳 FEATURING 🔥🔔 SSR ROLLO REAL…………………… …… …. . .. . …. . .. . . . ….. . .. . . AND LOOK AT hOW CRAZY HE LOOKS????!??!!!????W HAT KINdA EXPRESSIoN IS THAT SuPPOSED TO BE, HUh???????????!,????2?2?/,.?.?,?,,??26.(7$fgsT5f(d(g)$$FGFF e()vsceghsevDDA defn b kKDRJ avivkvDWRJn aidfww nOBODY toYCH ME, iM NOT OkAy OTL I’ll laugh so hard if his Duo Magic is with Malleus—

[twisted-wonderland-but-gayer]

REQUESTING G7! YUU WHERE WHEN THE OVERBLOT GANG MEETS THE G7 MEMBER THEY MATCH WITH AND THE G7 MEMBER SUBTLY IMPLIES (or straight up announces) THAT THEY SHOULD WED GET TOGETHER UL give grand kids?

Not all G7 members fit this but for the ones who do

Bringing The Overblots Home to the Seven

Great 7 AU

Uuuh Urusla and Jafar is more based on Starkid/Unfortunate Yuu is gn

To say your boyfriend was nervous was an understatement. He was an anxious wreck since learning that your parents were the seven themselves, even if he tried to play it off. How could he possibly explain when he tried to hurt you during his overblot to them. Would all seven even approve of him? To relax his nerves about meeting your family you decided to introduce them to each other one at a time, starting with the one their dorm was based on.

Riddle + The Queen of Hearts

“Rule 298, one must dress in appropriate attire when meeting with the Queen. According to the Heart’s Kingdom Fashion Guidebook of old, this is exactly the distinguished guest wear that they wore then…” Riddle takes a deep breath in as he smooths the multicolored and rather zany suit across his body. It was covered in all sorts of patches of color and card patterns, but he seemed to pull it off well.

“You don’t need to worry, Riddle, she likes you! She really does!” You soothe as Riddle gives himself a quick once over in the mirror. Pressing a kiss to his cheek, you both made your way over to Ramshackle where your mother waited excitedly.

Riddle sat at the tea table, directly across from the Queen of Hearts as you sat between them. Swallowing a lump in his throat he sat with perfect posture. “It is an honor to meet you, your majesty,” Riddle speaks nervously.

The Red Queen sits, for a moment, glancing over at you. “Mother… This is my boyfriend, Riddle as I’m sure you know!” Knowing what was to come you close your eyes, ever since you first arrived in NRC, your mother has adored Riddle and his affinity for her rules. She was beyond happy when you started developing feelings for him.

“Oh, my little Rose has a lover now! I’m so happy!” She says, holding her hand to her heart. “And with such a perfect gentleman too!” Riddle smiles proudly as the Queen hands him his tea. “You know…” She starts in a tone of voice you are all too familiar with.

“My little Rose here had a crush on you for a looong time!” “Mother…” “I think it was love at first sight!,” “Mother!” “And honestly I think it was so cute the way my little Yuu would speak of you!” “Mom!” You want to hide your face in embarrassment as Riddle shoots you a smirk. “Is that so, your majesty?”

“So have you discussed much about marriage?” “MOM!” You sputter as Riddle goes pink in the face. “Oh, I’m just saying you two are perfect for each other! You see—“ You hid your face in your hands, you just knew this would happen.

“Oh, it has been so long since I heard the words your majesty. Rose, you must hang on tight to this one!” As the conversation continues, Riddle starts to loosen up, and is able to bond with your mother over all sorts of things, and even impress her with reciting each of the Queen's rules by heart. That combined with his academic excellence, it's no shock that the Queen approves of him. What was shocking, however, was the conversation topic that came directly after.

Leona + Scar

“My father he’s…” “Strict?” Leona finishes, “I figured.” He sighs as he stretches up from his napping spot. “He does like you though if that's worth anything?” “Hmph.” Leona didn’t allow his aloof persona to fall, but you both knew that he was nervous. His idol the King of Beasts wants to meet him? And he’s dating his child…

It was a lot for Leona to take in… Still, he held a lot of respect for the King of Beasts. Washing up and dressing his best, you both made your way to Ramshackle where the lion lazily lay in the common room on the couch, messing with a chessboard.

“Oh? The little cub and their betrothed are here?” Scar glances over to where you and Leona stood, before getting up himself and approaching. Circling Leona, his sharp tongue dances again. “You’re certainly dressed to impress…” A small roar escapes his throat, before he circles back to the chessboard. “Do you play?”

“Yes, sir” Taking the king's cue, Leona sat down at the seat across from Scar. The two stare at each other for a moment before the lion lets out a yawn. “White goes first.” He huffs and Leona carefully moves a pawn to the center, a classic opener. You go and sit next to your father, giving your boyfriend a reassuring look.

“So tell me…” Scar moves his pawn to the center as well. “What are your intentions with my cub?” Despite how boredly he said it, you could tell how serious he was. Leona remained calm as ever, tail flicking. “To be their loyal mate and give them the best I can provide. They mean a lot to me.”

“Hmph. A daring answer…” Scar snarks (Though you could tell he was surprised by how mature Leona was), and watches Leona make his move on the board. “You’re usually a confident one, show me.” Just then Scar moves one of his rooks in a seemingly random maneuver. “You won’t be able to beat me nor impress me if you play it safe, cub.” He roars. “Bare your teeth…”

The most intense chess match breaks out spanning across an hour, the whole time you watch nervously as sparks fly and gears turn. Maunvers both bold and brazen are played across the board, and in the end, Leona…. Loses. With only the queens on both sides left, it was only a matter of time before one of them lost.

Scar suddenly leans into Leona’s face, snarling. Before you could intervene Leona gets up, snarling back, body ready to fight if needed. Your father then smirks before turning away, feigning boredom once again despite the small smile on his face and the fact that he had a good opponent for once, “Hmph, I suppose you have proven yourself to be worthy of my cub today…” He stretches before letting out a yawn.

“But if you ever want their hand, you would have to fight me for it, got it?” “I look forward to it.”

Azul + Urusla and the Eels.

You and Azul sat across from the table from your mother and your eel siblings as you glared at them. “You two better not say anything…” you warn. “Why I would never!” Jetsam snickers as he eyes a very nervous Azul, sitting with perfect manners and posture.

“Be nice to each other you two…” Ursula lightly scolds. You sigh and sit back, ready for the endless amount of teasing you both would endure, judging by Azul's carefully calculated expression, you could tell Azul was holding back his urge to fanboy at the sight of his idol.

“Now…” Ursula turns around to face you both, mirror in hand and touching up her lipstick. “Let's get started,” she smirks along with the eels who eye you and give a few sinister chuckles. “Hey, Azuuul!” Flotsam chuckles. “The little guppy had the most embarrassing crush on you~” “Do not go there.” You warn. “What did you say about him again? That he was super pretty and you couldn’t—“ “Jetsam!” You cut off the other eel as they both snicker, making Azul glance over at you, holding back a smirk.

“Ignore them.” You silently pray that you will survive this. “So Azul…” “It is an honor to meet you, I greatly admire your work.” “I can tell Angelfish, and I have to say I adore the way you run things!” She waves her hands showing her nails. “You and your boys run a tight ship, and I always appreciate a good old-fashioned gentleman to take care of my little guppy here.”

“I'm glad you chose well, child. You know I will always support you no matter who you choose so long as they make you happy. Besides, I know no one would have the audacity to hurt my baby!” Ursula gives a genuine smile at the two of you as you lean into Azul. “Aw, you two are adorable!” Leaning in closer with the eels, Ursula’s grin grows again.

“Come here Azul, I’m sure we have much to talk about,” your mother says as she slides over, makeup brush in hand. “In this family, we always do our makeup together, I hope you don’t mind~” “Not at all, ma’am!” Azul boasts as Ursula starts applying some light foundation to Azul’s features. Your eel siblings slither their way over to you with makeup brushes in their mouths and an evil glint in their eyes and you know you're gonna look like a clown by the end of the night.

The rest of the night was spent well, doing makeup and talking about all sorts of things as if Azul was already a deeper part of your family. He even sasses back Jetsam on a few occasions (probably due to experiences with his own eels) and you knew he would fit in just right.

Jamil + Jafar

To say that your father wasn’t all that pleased that you got with Jamil was an understatement. He was an intelligent and strong artisan, yes, but that doesn't erase what he did during book four! At least that is his excuse, you have a faint idea however that your baba doesn't want to see you grow up however, given the fact that he seems fond of Jamil compared to most others…

You and a sharply dressed Jamil are escorted by a very talkative Iago, who is attempting his best shovel talk as he flaps his wings. “Oh hush Iago,” you roll your eyes out of embarrassment. “He’s always like this…” “I am not!” Iago squawks, landing on your shoulder. “I just can't believe you're coming home with some guy!” “He’s not just a guy, Iago. He’s my boyfriend!” “That’s even worse!”

Sighing, you hold Jamil’s hand, squeezing it as you brave the mirror into the Ramshackle dorm where your father waits. Into the dorm, you immediately see him standing there, and Iago goes to take his place on his shoulder. Tapping his staff on the ground twice, he greets you both. “Child… Jamil…” “Greetings, sir.”

Jamil was in his servant mode, years of being at Kalim’s beck and call paying off. Jafar and Iago stared down at the young man where he stood “Drop the act. I see through it.” Jamil relaxes slightly but still holds his posture as Jafar approaches him. “Hmph. So my diamond brought back the boy who tried to kill them… How do I know you won’t try to hurt them again?” Jafar leans in and glares as Iago gives a smug look.

“I regret what I have done in the past, sir. If I could go back and right my wrongs I would. I do not want to hurt Yuu.” “Hmph…” Jafar held his head high as he sifted through his pockets. “We shall see about that. Follow me.”

Guiding Jamil out of Ramshackle you followed Jafar as he held a device out; two halves of a golden scarab. You could feel Jamil tense slightly at the sight. “ Love is built on the foundation of trust. This device,” Jafar holds them up between his thumb and index finger. “Can only be conjoined when two lovers truly trust each other. When there is no trust, there cannot be love. Only if the beetles connect, will I allow this relationship” He states, face stoic.

“Baba, isn't this a bit much?” You interrupt making Iago squawk again. “You heard what Jafar said!” Jafar merely held up his hands, a signal for silence. “Habibi, you should have nothing to fear if you both truly love each other.” A small grin threatens to rise to his face before he closes his hand into a fist and opens his palm revealing the halves. “Take one.”

Jamil reaches over and grabs one half of the mechanical beetle as do you. “Hold them next to each other. You grab onto Jamil's empty hand, intertwining your fingers with his as you feel his heartbeat speed up. He was nervous, and so were you. Swallowing you both look at each other, ignoring how Iago snickers as you hold both halves of the beetle to each other.

For a brief moment, nothing happens and your heart sinks, before Jamil’s half twitches and connects with yours, activating your side. The beetle suddenly glows, shooting a beam of golden light into the air briefly before its wings flap. Jafar reaches his hand out and allows it to fly back onto his palm.

“It seems you have passed. It will be wonderful to have another talented mage in the family.” The sorcerer remains stoic as Iago’s jaw hangs on the floor. “Now, come in. I will prepare a pot of tea.”

You didn't tell Jamil that when he left Jafar asked if you see yourself getting married to him.

Vil + Queen Grimhilde

Queen Grimhilde was always… stiff. She seldom expressed her emotions, and she rarely was physically affectionate, but you knew she loved you in her own way. You remember her awkward hugs to your child self and how she always pushed you to be your best.

So when it came time to introduce her to your boyfriend Vil, you were nervous. You didn't know if she would show her more brutal side or if her strictness may come off the wrong way when she expresses her opinions on your relationship. It did bring you both comfort to know that the Queen admired his own strictness and ideals.

In his best dress, Vil entered the Pommefiore commons which was bare due to the presence of the Queen who admired herself in the hand mirror she carried, her Raven sitting on the table next to her. You remember her saying she couldn’t bear to be in the Ramshackle dorm any longer. Come sit.” She commands, gesturing to the chairs next to her at the fancy table she sat at, not taking her eyes off the mirror.

You stiffly sat down, making the Queen glance at you as Vil curtsied before sitting down gracefully. De-materializing the mirror in thin air she placed her perfectly manicured hands on top of each other, resting them on the table, Raven started to flap her wings and went to perch on your mother's shoulder. “So, you are the one dating my child, I must admit, I’m more impressed than I thought I would be.” She states giving him a once-over.

Grimhilde raises a brow, then looks at you, pouring a strange sparkly tea into a cup and bestowing it to Vil, before pouring one for you as well. “Drink up.” She commands again and you and Vil pick up your saucers your teacups sat on and took a sip with your best manners,

“Tell me, why should I entrust my child to you?” A flash of light seemed to flicker in Vil’s eyes as he spoke. “I will cherish them every day of our lives together, they mean the world to me.” “And you will not hurt them?” “I wouldn’t dream of it, your highness.”

Lifting her head up and crossing her arms she asks another question, one Raven crows at. “What do you love about them, about my Yuu?” Grimhilde ran her fingers through Raven's feathers as her gaze seemed to burn through you and Vil. “Everything. I am completely infatuated with Yuu.” Vil’s eyes widen slightly at the blunt response he gave, at which Grimhilde wears an evil glint in her eye as she continues.

“And you child. Do you love, no, do you trust this man?” A sudden force came over you, and it was like you couldn't formulate your own words. “With all my heart.” “With all your heart…” She repeats, almost impressed. “Well, that's a start... Now tell me. What do you love about Vil? What do you see in him that you want?”

As you try to formulate a sentence you sputter slightly making realize what that sweet liquid you drank was: Truth Serum Tea. “I see someone who always gives his best. A young man who always looks out for others in his own way. Someone that will love me as much as I do him.” There was so much more you wanted to say, so much more than the truth serum beckoned out of you, yet you didn’t know how.

“And you, Vil?” “I see someone I can be my true self with. Someone I can let my guard down with. Someone I can truly trust.”

'Hmm… That concludes this test, for now.” Raven crows in response as you let out a sigh of relief. “I shall brew you the antidote, now Vil.” She adds some powder to into the teapot and mixes it with a golden spoon. “We have much to talk about,”

Idia + Hades

“Nice to see you're doing charity work by dating him.” “Be nice! I love him!” You sighed, knowing well that your father would make getting a lover exceptionally difficult. “I just can’t believe you’re falling head over heels for some guy!” “He’s very kind to me!” “Oh please, he's a guy!” Hades spat. You knew introducing Idia to him would be… interesting.

Idia was practically shaking as you both walked hand in hand to Ramshackle, he was already an anxious person in general, and now he has to meet his partner’s (Who was already way out of his league beforehand) father who happens to be LORD HADES?! It was a wonder he hasn’t fainted.

“Oh hey, you're finally here.” Hades spoke standing in the doorway of Ramshackle, smirking when he sees Idia. “Please, do come in…”

Idia sat at the table, Pain and Panic sat between you and Idia per Hades orders and he “doesn’t want to see any canoodling between to two of you.” Floating over to his seat Hades stretches before leaning in. “Soooo…” Hades looks between the two of you. “Tell me again, kiddo why did you choose this one again?”

“Dad! I told you he treats me well and is very nice to me! He’s a really sweet guy!” Idia’s hair flickers with pink highlights for a second before he looks away “Right, I don't see it. I see a very cowardly Panic wannabe here, personally.” Man, he never expected Lord Hades, Thee Lord Hades, to tear into him this is so embarrassing.

“Okay so listen here kid, what do you want from my kiddo, huh? What's your deal?” “Well, um, I” Hades looks unimpressed at you. “I really love them, you know…” Idia practically whispers without realizing. Hades nearly drags his hand over his face.

“Alright then, kid. Let's try this again, what do you want with my ember?” “I um” “Come on, say it with your chest!” “I can't say it with my chest if you keep interrupting me!” Idia snapped before covering his mouth with a horrified expression. You stare at your dad and then at Pain and Panic who looked at each other in horror. A moment of silence passes before Hades smiles.

“There we go!” Hades laughs. “There's a bit of punch, a bit of bite, you lacked. I knew there was more to you. Keep it up and you just may be in my good graces yet,” Hades laughed, making Idia relax.

The two seemed to hit off very well, as they occasionally sassed each other in their conversations, even conversing with Pain and Panic as well. “Aaah srry for my awkwardness you were always a big inspiration for my growing up…” ”Oh is that so? Well don’t stop there, praise me more!” (There are lots of times where Idia talked about Tech Hades didn't understand)

It is safe to say Hades sees Idia as a good kid and is welcomed to the family.

Malleus + Maleficent

To say that Malleus was surprised that his distant ancestor watched over you was an understatement, even more so when she invited him out for a walk to get to know him, promising Lilia they will catch up later. Is the Thorn Fairy inviting him? This was a huge honor, especially since she wants to congratulate you on your relationship together.

Deep in the forest of Ramshackle stood Maleficent in all of her glory as she admires the world around her, finally free to roam. The fae looked back to you and Malleus, face carefully neutral as Dival flocked from your shoulder to hers. “You’ve arrived. We have much to talk about, it appears you are a great-grandson of mine?”

“Indeed I am, Mistress Maleficent.” “There is no need for formalities. Now tell me all about you and my Dragon-Child.” Malleus gave a smile and you leaned into him, before Diaval let out a crow, as if telling you to stop.

The four of you took your time walking the forest trail that Malleus adored, you listened as Malleus updated the Thorn Fairy on all the history that has taken place since her reign, the well-being of Briar Valley, and Lilia, her old friend. “Still can't cook after all these years?” “I am afraid not.”

“It seems you and my child have grown close. Usually, I would be against anyone dating my child, but you aren’t just anyone, are you? Tell me, what made you love them?” Malleus's eyes widened slightly as he thought for a moment. “Well, everything.” He finally answered after a while.

Maleficent smiles down at Malleus as Diaval looks between him and you. “And you will take care of them?” Diaval asks in his crow voice. “I would do anything for them,” Malleus answers strongly.

“Congratulations you two on finding each other, I am happy to see how your relationship will flourish. And finally... Yuu?” the fae asked gently “Yes?” Maleficent approaches you and bends down to hug you. “I can now truly welcome you into my family as well my child… Just do not tell the other six…” You let out a chuckle before returning the hug tenfold.

“Now tell me, when do you both plan on getting married?” You speak for Malleus, trying to get your mother to drop the subject. “Oh! Well, we haven't gotten that far yet—“ Maleficent will understand but will also now give you all sorts of courting advice on dragon fae. Diaval and you see right through her though.

The rest of the seven are secretly salty

[beardedmrbean]

The U.K.'s last coal-fired power plant was to close permanently on Monday — bringing an end to 140 years of reliance on the fossil fuel to generate electricity in Britain. The move will make the U.K. the first major global economy to completely phase out coal as an energy source. 

The Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station, located near a small village in southern England, was to close its doors for the last time at midnight local time. The power station has been generating electricity since 1967 and "played a key role in keeping the nation's lights on," its parent company Uniper said in a statement Monday. 

"Since commissioning it has produced enough energy to make more than 21 trillion cups of tea and its 2GW capacity is enough to power two million homes," the company said. 

Peter O'Grady, the plant's manager, told CBS News it was "an emotional day."

"When I started my career 36 years ago, none of us imagined a future without coal generation in our lifetimes. I am incredibly proud of what we've achieved together over the years and to be part of this energy milestone as the country focuses on a cleaner energy future," he said.

The move sees the U.K. make good on one of the environmental pledges made by the government as part of a wider strategy to combat climate change and achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Coal is considered the single most damaging fossil fuel for the environment, according to Greenpeace, as it releases more carbon dioxide than oil or gas. Coal also produces mercury and arsenic, and small particles of soot which contribute to air pollution.

Thirteen countries have already phased out coal as a source of energy, according to independent climate think tank Ember, but Britain will be the only member of the G7 group of economically advanced, democratic nations to do so thus far.

In the G7's largest economy by a significant margin, the U.S., the Department of Energy acknowledges that coal is still "used to generate a significant chunk of our nation's electricity" — about 16% of the total share in 2023, according to the Energy Information Administration.

U.K. Energy Minister Michael Shanks said in a statement sent Monday to CBS News that the closure of the Ratcliffe power station "marks the end of an era, and coal workers can be rightly proud of their work powering our country for over 140 years."

"The era of coal might be ending, but a new age of good energy jobs for our country is just beginning," Shanks said. 

The first coal plant in Britain went online in 1882, when Thomas Edison's Holborn Viaduct coal plant started generating electricity for public use. It was a first-of-its-kind station, and it burned enough coal to provide energy to light 1,000 lamps in the City of London.

Despite efforts to make the industry cleaner, the fundamentals of coal-fired electricity generation have remained largely unchanged since Edison's company fired up its boilers. The process involves burning the fossil fuel to heat water to create steam, which spins a turbine to produce electricity.

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

For Lula, Milei Has Gone From Being a Nuisance to Being a Problem

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has aspirations for regional and global leadership. Standing in Lula’s way is the fact that he cannot even get a meeting with his counterpart from neighboring Argentina, President Javier Milei.

Seven months after Milei’s inauguration, the two leaders have met only once and even then briefly, on the sidelines of the G7 meeting last month in Italy. Otherwise, they have unartfully dodged each other as they have darted around the region and the world promoting their opposing ideological views.

Lula’s global agenda is expansive. He wants Brazil to have a permanent United Nations Security Council seat. He plans for the country to take a leading role in climate change negotiations as he hosts the U.N. COP30 Climate Change Conference in Brazil next year. He has tried to insert himself as a mediator in the Ukraine conflict. And when BRICS—the political grouping that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa—moved to expand last year, Lula made sure to bring along Argentina under then-President Alberto Fernandez as one of its new members.

Milei withdrew Argentina from the BRICS expansion process as soon as he took office in December. That’s consistent with his desire to move the country away from China and closer to the United States. Besides that, he has not clearly outlined an international agenda for his country. But Milei definitely has an international agenda for himself. He has portrayed himself as an ally of Israel and Ukraine, a contrast to Latin America’s left-wing leaders who have opposed the former’s war in Gaza and mainly attempted to remain neutral on the latter’s fight against Russian aggression.

Ideologically, Milei is attempting to turn himself into a global icon for free market libertarianism, speaking at conferences in South America, the U.S. and Europe, and meeting with venture capital investors and social media stars. He uses strong rhetoric in favor of capitalism and against any form of what he views as socialism or Marxism. His relatively extreme views, which only appeal to a small minority of Argentine voters who comprise his base, get him wild cheers overseas.

Continue reading.

[thelostdreamsthings]

"Putin is isolated."

BRICS, 50% of the World population is telling a big "fuck off" to the arrogant, declining and decadent G7 amounting to 10% of the World's population.

🇺🇳🇷🇺 UN Secretary General Guterres respectfully bows and shakes the hand of Putin in Russia’s Kazan at the BRICS summit.

A lot of people start crying and scream hysterically when they see this picture, for some reason.

[BRICS Currency Looms Large: Could This Be the Beginning of the End for U.S. Dollar Dominance?

For decades, the U.S. dollar has been weaponized as a tool of global dominance, wielded by the American empire to enforce its geopolitical will.

Through sanctions, coercive financial practices, and the threat of exclusion from the dollar-based system, the U.S. has effectively terrorized nations across the world.

The pretense of a “free market” economy has long been shattered by Washington's aggressive use of the dollar as a weapon to cripple economies, isolate adversaries, and exert control over global trade.

But the world is growing tired—sick and tired—of this financial tyranny. And now, with the rise of BRICS, we may be witnessing the beginning of the end for U.S. dollar supremacy.

BRICS—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—represent a bloc of nations that together account for nearly half of the global population and a significant chunk of the world’s GDP.

For years, these nations have been quietly collaborating to counterbalance the West's stranglehold over international finance, and now, they are inching closer to launching their own currency.

The creation of a BRICS currency signals an outright challenge to the dollar-dominated global economy, and it is nothing short of a revolt against American financial imperialism.

Why is this happening? The answer is simple: countries are fed up with being bullied. The U.S. has used its currency like a sledgehammer, smashing nations that dare to defy its hegemony.

Whether through sanctions on Iran, Venezuela, or Russia, or by financially suffocating smaller nations into submission, the dollar has become a tool of coercion rather than commerce.

Nations who once played by the rules of the so-called “global order” have found themselves punished, their economies crippled, and their people starved—merely for refusing to kowtow to Washington's dictates.

But BRICS is offering an alternative. The creation of a BRICS currency, backed by the economic strength of its member nations, offers the world a way out of the suffocating grip of the dollar.

This is not just about financial autonomy—it’s about reclaiming sovereignty, independence, and the right to conduct trade without the constant threat of U.S. interference.

Russia and China have been leading the charge in this effort, driven in part by the U.S. sanctions imposed on Moscow following the Ukraine conflict and the ongoing trade war with Beijing.

Both countries have moved aggressively to reduce their reliance on the U.S. dollar, increasing trade with each other and with other BRICS members in their local currencies.

They are laying the groundwork for a currency that could be based on a basket of commodities, potentially gold-backed, further weakening the grip of the U.S. dollar on the global market.

The U.S. has long prided itself on its role as the issuer of the world’s reserve currency, but this dominance was never guaranteed to last forever.

The BRICS currency threatens to dismantle the global financial architecture that has allowed the U.S. to live far beyond its means.

For decades, the U.S. has run massive deficits, printing money at will, secure in the knowledge that the world would continue to rely on the dollar.

But as BRICS nations move to establish their own currency, that privilege could evaporate overnight.

The implications for the U.S. are dire. If the dollar loses its status as the world’s reserve currency, the U.S. economy could face a severe reckoning.

The artificial demand for dollars that has kept interest rates low and allowed the U.S. to run massive debt could vanish, leading to inflation, higher borrowing costs, and potentially a fiscal crisis.

The American empire, propped up for so long by its control of global finance, could find itself in rapid decline.

For the rest of the world, however, the rise of a BRICS currency represents hope—a chance to escape the iron grip of U.S. financial imperialism. No longer will countries have to fear the punitive measures of the U.S. Treasury.

No longer will they have to worry about being cut off from the global financial system for standing up to American bullying.

The creation of a new currency could usher in a multipolar world, where nations are free to trade without being subject to the whims of a single superpower.

Of course, the U.S. will not go quietly. Washington will likely pull out all the stops to crush the BRICS currency before it can gain traction. The playbook will be the same: propaganda, financial sabotage, and even the threat of military intervention.

But this time, the world may not be so easily intimidated. The BRICS nations, backed by their vast resources and burgeoning economies, are prepared to stand their ground.

In the end, the creation of a BRICS currency is not just an economic development—it’s a revolutionary act. It’s a declaration that the age of American financial dominance is coming to an end, and that a new world is on the horizon.

The U.S. dollar, once seen as the bedrock of global stability, has become a symbol of oppression, and the world is ready to move on.

The question now is not whether the U.S. dollar will fall, but when. And as BRICS moves closer to launching its own currency, that day may be sooner than anyone expects.

The empire, long propped up by its financial manipulation, is facing a reckoning—one that could change the course of history.]

IMF Growth Forecast: 2024

🇮🇳India: 7.0% (BRICS)

🇨🇳China: 4.8% (BRICS)

🇷🇺Russia: 3.6% (BRICS)

🇧🇷Brazil: 3.0% (BRICS)

🇺🇸US: 2.8% (G7)

🇸🇦KSA: 1.5% (invited to BRICS)

🇨🇦Canada: 1.3% (G7)

🇿🇦RSA: 1.1% (BRICS)

🇬🇧UK: 1.1% (G7)

🇫🇷France: 1.1% (G7)

🇮🇹Italy: 0.7% (G7)

🇯🇵Japan: 0.3% (G7)

🇩🇪Germany: 0.0% (G7)

‼️ 159 out of 193 countries have signed up to use the new BRICS settlement system.

US and European Union will no longer be able to use economic sanctions as a weapon.

This system allows countries to settle trades and payments in their own currencies, reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar, which has long been the dominant global currency.

[zahri-melitor]

My comments on the Extended Generational Sorting Algorithm:

Gosh there are some murky in-betweens here.

G-1 – JSA and teams like the All-Star Squadron and the Blackhawks. The WWII edition. This is occasionally merged with G0 as timelines shift, but includes Hippolyta, Ted Knight, Sandra Knight (as Phantom Lady), Alan Scott, Jay Garrick, etc. A lot of this cohort have aging issues and several have grandkids in G1 or G1.5. Zinda simultaneously belongs to this group and G1.5.

G0 – JSA, the gap between WWII and the first JLA. This is the younger JSA cohort who aren’t so tied to WWII and the gap after. Dinah Drake. Ted Grant. Johnny Quick. Giovanni Zatara. Walter Chase (the Acro-Bat). Bruce’s parents. The Kents. Jim Gordon. Etc.

G1 – JLA land! Bruce, Clark, Diana, Ollie, Barry, Hal, Arthur, etc. You know them. Your idea of a headlining JLA includes these folk.

G1.5 – Birds of Prey and JLI zone. Characters too old to be Titans cohort but younger/clearly different than the G1 headliners. Barbara Gordon and Dinah Lance are the stalwarts of this group, plus I’ll add Helena Bertinelli, Cameron Chase, Kate Spencer, Kendra, etc. I guess I’d probably put Harley Quinn, agewise, here too. Also would add Beatriz, Tora, Booster, Ted Kord, etc. Guy and Zatanna sort of bounce between here and G1 depending on storyline.

G2 – it’s the Titans! Dick, Donna, Wally, Roy, Garth, Victor, Gar, Kory, Raven etc. Their agebounds are probably Roy as the oldest and Gar as the youngest, though Gar’s given to them as a courtesy – he’s realistically a member of G2.5, he just hangs with G2. We also add Kyle and Connor and Jesse Quick etc to this cohort despite them not being core Titans given their strong connections to particularly Donna and Wally.

G2.5 – The JL Taskforce kids and Jason’s non-existent team. Ray Palmer’s Teen Titans. This is a group of individuals that has never properly coalesced. Overlaps in age with both the bottom of G2 and the top of G3 but distinctly don’t belong to either. Jason, Ray, Grant, Argent, Cynthia, Eddie, Snapper Carr, plus Danny Chase and arguably Gar all fall into this group. Rose Wilson overlaps with G3 but vibeswise probably also belongs to this group. I am tossing up whether Anissa and Jennifer Pierce belong here or in G2.

G3 – Young Justice. Tim, Kon, Cassie, Bart, Cissie, Greta, Anita. Cass Cain belongs here despite being the same age as several G2.5s. Steph, Charlie, Black Alice, Jaime, Zachary Zatara, even a handful of the newer folk like Jinny Hex slot in here. Several Supergirls including current Kara, Courtney Whitmore IS a member of this group and the three oldest Marvel kids (Billy, Mary and Freddy) are currently aged into this.

G4 – Damian’s Teen Titans. Damian, Jon Kent (yes even still with the age up), Emiko Queen, Ace West etc. If they are still a teen right now in DC storytelling or SHOULD be a teen, they belong here (if they’re a teen and SHOULDN’T be they’re probably a G3/G5). The Gotham Academy kids. Arguably the Titan Academy kids too? Agewise the DEO Titans kids but spiritually probably not (also the chances of us ever seeing them again is…low) The younger Marvel kids (Eugene, Pedro and Darla especially) are with this group.

G5 – so this group are either alternate G3 or G3.5s. Too new and too un-networked with G3 to be absorbed. Jace Fox, Yara Flor, Jackson Hyde, Duke Thomas and the We Are Robin cohort all belong here. Kong Kenan, Avery Ho, etc also are members.

G6 – Titans Offspring Gen. Almost everyone in this group has been artificially aged, which is a thing, hey. Lian, Irey, Jai, Cerdian, Robbie. Maxine, obviously. Otho and Osul-Ra.

G7 – Help I’m From Earth-One: Power Girl and Helena Wayne.

G8 – The Lost Children – also Help I’m From Earth-One in a lot of respects but they’re in their teens, not adults. May get folded into other groups if they get more use.

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from CNN:

The Group of Seven nations announced Tuesday its member nations would end the use of “unabated” coal by 2035, but left the door open for countries to stretch that deadline in particular contexts.

In a communiqué published after talks between energy, climate and environment ministers in Turin, Italy, the group announced it had committed to “phase out existing unabated coal power generation in our energy systems during the first half of 2030s,” in a climate policy breakthrough that G7 negotiators had previously failed to achieve in several years of talks.

But by referring to “unabated” coal, the agreement leaves room for countries to use the fossil fuel past 2035 if their carbon pollution is captured before entering the atmosphere.

The agreement also includes a caveat that countries could choose “a timeline consistent with keeping a limit of 1.5°C temperature rise within reach, in line with countries’ net-zero pathways.”

That caveat appears to allow those countries to keep using coal past 2035, as long as their overall national emissions won’t contribute to global warming of more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Science shows that some of the planet’s ecosystems will reach tipping points or struggle to adapt beyond that point.

[jiisoooo]

I feel like I miss stanning a gg

[emmasource]

emmawatson: “We urge G7 leaders to be as brave as women and girls are every single day. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ We expect G7 states to urgently adopt, fully implement and fund, the most ambitious legislative frameworks on combating gender based violence against women in order to create a fair, safe and dignified world for its constituents. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ This goes beyond politics, and left and right. We are simply asking member states to protect universal human rights and be the leaders we know they can be. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ As human beings, please do not be passive bystanders to the attacks and roll backs we see happening all around us and every day on women’s rights all across the world - be active participants in moving us forward.” ~ @g7 Gender Equality Advisory Council, Paris 2019

[mariacallous]

Orbán threatens to mess with Ukraine aid to help Trump

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is preparing to serve up a major policy gift for his best friend across the Atlantic, former United States President Donald Trump.

He’s concocted a way to let Trump, if he successfully makes it to the White House for a second term come November, wriggle out of a $50 billion loan the U.S., the European Union and leaders of the G7 offered to Ukraine to back its fight for survival against Russia. That would let Trump off the hook, allowing him to tell Republican voters that, if elected, he won’t give Ukraine another cent.

Hungary says it won’t consent to a change in rules that would allow Washington to play a major role in the loan until after the U.S. election.

The loan would be repaid entirely using the windfall profits generated by over $250 billion of Russian assets that were immobilized across Western countries after Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Europe has more skin in the game as it holds most of the funds.

And timing is everything. Washington insists that the EU needs to extend the sanctions renewal timeframe to at least 36 months. Under current rules, the EU’s sanctions come up for renewal every six months, which increases the likelihood of a single country unfreezing the assets — which would force national governments to tap into taxpayers’ money to repay the loan.

While every other leader is in favor of extending the sanctions rollover period to 36 months as requested by the U.S., Orbán refuses. According to the EU’s own rules, all 27 member countries need to approve any changes to the sanctions rules.

Ukraine urgently needs fresh funding from its Western allies to keep its state running and prepare for what is expected to be a brutal winter as Russia targets the war-torn country’s energy infrastructure.

And now, thanks to Orbán, the U.S. is unlikely to participate substantially. Still, Europe is likely to go ahead anyway.

“If we don’t work this out [by extending the sanctions duration] it will cost the EU — including Hungary — more money,” said one EU diplomat, who, like others quoted, was granted anonymity to speak openly about the matter.

Costs for European countries — including Hungary — would be higher than if the U.S. was on board. 

However, for Orbán that’s a small price to pay. The upside for him is that he would be buying much-needed goodwill from his Republican friend.

“They [Hungary] don’t care if Europe has to pay more. It’s about helping Trump,” said a second EU diplomat.

If Brussels and Washington jointly underwrite the €35 billion loan, a reelected Trump would be tied to servicing it for years. But if the loan is approved without the U.S., he would have no such obligation.

Orbán’s blocking of the loan is the latest example of alignment between Trump and the Hungarian prime minister, who met as recently as July at Mar-a-Lago.

Speaking to journalists in Brussels, Orbán said he would be popping “several bottles of champagne” if Trump prevails over Kamala Harris in November. 

The two already appear to be marching in lockstep when it comes to Ukraine.

Orbán digs in

What seems like a technical quibble is a critical consideration for Washington — and could be enough to break transatlantic unity on Ukraine support, at least on the financial front.

As Orbán threatens to use his veto in Brussels, the U.S. signaled that it is considering participating in the loan — albeit with a significantly lower amount — even if the EU cannot prolong its sanctions period, a third EU diplomat and a European Commission official said.

One of the options involves Washington contributing $5 billion, which roughly equals the amount of Russian assets that it holds domestically — and would still leave Europe footing the lion’s share of the bill.

The Commission official believes that the U.S. does not want to arrive “empty-handed” at a meeting of G7 finance ministers in Washington at the end of October that will likely decide the fine print of the $50 billion loan.

Perhaps more significantly, Japan recently signaled that it might pull out of the loan if the U.S. does not take part.

For the time being, all eyes are on the summit of EU leaders in Brussels this week.

If Hungary refuses to budge on the sanctions duration, the EU is likely to finalize the loan on its own terms because its budget rules make it much easier to get the payment approved by national capitals before year-end.

The EU is fast-tracking legislation to pay up to €35 billion to Ukraine, which covers the U.S. share of the loan and is set to be finalized by the end of October.

But penny-pinching governments in the EU are reluctant to increase their contribution to cover the shortfall from the U.S.

“We are putting pressure, but so far Orbán is not caving,” said the first EU diplomat.

“It’s just a game of chicken.”

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

About the order of the dormitories.

Is it confirmed that Heartslabyul is the first because it's inspired by Alice in Wonderland? (I always thought it was that, but now I'm in doubt).

And about book 2 initially being book 6. This creates a pattern in which 2nd graders are the first to overblot and then 3rd graders.

(I don't know if my age calculations are correct).

And, following this logic, it would also be from the youngest boy to the oldest: Riddle (birthday in August, and if the school year starts in September, he turned 16 (minimum age) just before going to the NRC), Azul, (birthday in February), Jamil (born 12 days after the start of the school year in September, so he had to wait a bit longer to go, (I think I saw somewhere that this is canonical?)) Vil, (birthday in April, before September, so probably didn't have to wait an extra year to turn 16) Idia, (birthday in December, after September, so probably should have waited longer to turn 16). So we have Leono aged 20 and Malleus aged 178.

And with the current dorm order, the Disney villains vary: Female (QoH), male (Scar), female (Ursula), male (Jafar), female (Evil Queen), male (Hades), female (Maleficent).

I'm not sure if that makes sense?

Any chance it's deliberate?

(Sorry for any mistakes, I don't speak English and I'm using a translator).

[Referencing this post!]

Again, I couldn’t find any confirmation as to why the dorm order is the way it is; that is inclusive of Heartslabyul. I think you may just be assuming Heartslabyul is first because it’s the one inspired by Alice in Wonderland (for which the franchise is named, hence Twisted Wonderland). (Personally, I would think that a franchise named that would feature the Alice in Wonderland dorm as the final one, not the first.)

Your calculations are correct; if we assume the dorm trailer reveal order is the original “intended” order, then the story would progress in order of youngest second year to oldest second year (Riddle, Azul, Jamil), then youngest third year to oldest third year (Vil, Idia, Leona, Malleus). While there isn’t strong evidence that this is deliberate, I think it’s interesting to consider the pattern of gradually aging through the lens of book 7, whose conflict kicks off because Malleus is so afraid of change and losing his loved ones to time. When the main story itself is subtly posed to indicate a student slowly aging up into adulthood and leaving their peaceful school days behind… Yeah, it’s melancholic in a way 😞

With the current order, we do in fact see an alternating pattern of female-male Great Seven members. It’s unclear whether this pattern was intentional or not, as TWST doesn’t really have a strong gender-based theme to its overall narrative.

What I do think is slightly more believable is that the manga!Yuus may have intentionally been designed as the opposite gender of the G7 member whose book they feature in. Male Yuuken is the Yuu for Heartslabyul (Queen of Hearts), female Yuuka is the Yuu for Savanaclaw (King of Beasts), and male Yuuta is the Yuu for Octavinelle (Sea Witch). We’re going to have to see if this pattern keeps up for future Yuus, as it’s possible that they mix things up (for example, maybe we’ll get a nonbinary Yuu!). Right now, I think an argument could be made that they “flipped” the genders for the manga!Yuus to “mirror” their respective G7 member. (TWST has a LOT of mirror imagery.)

[twisted-wonderland-but-gayer]

👋 Can you rank the IB gang based on their closeness with G7 Yuu?

Based on Canon we know that every heartstabyul member wishes Yuu was part of their dorm. I also looked at some of the old valentines cards and you seem to be cool with Azul too. Sadly onlg the heartslabyul manga is finished and incant see additional dialouge.... It's harder to tell with other characters since I don't see much on them but if I had to guess

Malleus

Riddle

Azul

Vil/Jamil

Idia

Leona