#i need more people to see these beautiful art dedicated to Blossom <3 | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

pen-observing · 3 years ago

Note

This might be dumb, but could you do like a modern coffee shop (or bar) AU of you training Zhongli and having a whole "coworkers to lovers" vibe? It's time for Zhongli to get a job 😤 Also I can't my mind off Zhongli struggling to work the cashier or proudly showing off making a drink correctly.

i say i am a kaeya main but in reality zhongli is the only character tripple crowned so ofc i can try to do this

how does this come about? venti and zhongli are actually roommates and renting a suburban place because everyone knows zhongli has high standards.

however, zhongli has no job nor is he able to get one that easily.

venti was fine paying for everything for the first 3 months but after he did the math and realised that he will never again drink high quality wine if this continues - he demanded that zhongli gets a job

in reality, zhongli knows a lot but the knowledge is rarely of practical necessity so when he sets out to look for a job - he is really looking for anything at all

luckily for him, your manager always talks about how it would be a blessing if 'someone with the highest coffee shop aesthetic' worked here. 'the business would blossom!'

you thought it was silly. what even is a coffee shop aesthetic?

all your doubts were immediately dismissed when your manager rushed into the shop at 9am while dragging a man by his arm inside

he was beautiful, and the colors inside the shop only made him appear even more mesmerising

it seemed like he belonged inside this space

yes, he was slightly confused why someone had to drag him inside in that manner but he did not mind since on the street, the person already promised him a job. now venti had nothing to be mad about, right?

venti did not. you however did.

when your manager asked him to make coffee for 3 he confidently walked up to you, brushed past you to get closer to the machine.

but nothing happened.

he just stood there.

you looked up at him and his chin was in his hand. never has anyone stared down the coffee machine like this.

he was an expert at making tea but this was just so different.

zhongli turned his head to look at you.

'excuse me, but what is it exactly that i am supposed to do now?'

your manager laughed but you knew he was serious about the question.

'you need to press in the order you want. and then make it using this machine.'

'ah, i see.'

and he still did nothing.

it irked you that despite this he got the job as just a waiter.

your manager was reluctant to let him go after all.

when zhongli got home he told venti about his job and what happened. venti knew how much trouble a clueless zhongli really is so he made him play papa's freezeria on the computer to get a sense of his new job.

zhongli came the next day. completely composed and seemingly prepared. in his wishes to be on time, he came early and since his key was not made yet the first sight that greeted you was not the usual door with the closed sign - it was him leaning against it with his coat and his nose slightly red from the cold.

'i am glad to see that you are here.' his voice touched you at that moment, and he was more comforting to see than the lonely.

'could you please unlock the shop?'

and you did.

when the two of you walked in, he took both of your coats and hanged them on the rack.

he seemed gentle enough and careful enough not to mess up on his first day.

zhongli dedicates himself to everything he sets his mind to. and he was flawless as a waiter. polite words and smiles; he always remembered the order correctly and his presence did draw in a few more customers.

you were still the one who worked the register and made the actual orders tho.

at the end - he made sure to help with cleaning but when the two of you were putting on the coats he said: 'it is a shame.'

you simply asked what he was referring to because his look held some regret.

'oh, my roommate made me play a game so i get familiar with the register. i just thought it was a shame i didn't get to use it today.'

how can someone feel regret about such a thing? and why did it seem so serious all of a sudden?

'if you want, i can show you how to use it tomorrow morning before the customers come?'

'i would appreciate it.'

his smile at that moment was enough to make you smile too.

and you did show him. when there was free time; it was dedicated to helping him learn how to use the register or how to make simple orders.

really, the early mornings spent with him in which you watched his hands shake to becoming steady were so ordinary but so magical.

he was always glad to learn something new.

he was a quick learner but both of you worried that he would make a mistake during official work hours so he never had a chance to use it seriously.

but, after a week and a half, you caught a small cold and zhongli was left to fight all by himself.

for those 2 days your mind was filled with worry for him. 'is he going to be okay? how will he manage the new people and the more complicated orders? will he be able to do latte art? maybe the manager will help him more now and come to the shop more often while i am out sick?'

this made you realise he was somehow an important part of your day.

after the cold, you rushed to the shop faster than ever.

he had already unlocked it and what greeted you was zhongli behind the open register.

he gave you a smile before walking over.

' i am glad to see you are here again.'

'oh no.' zhongli held your shoulders. 'you are all out of breath. is this a side effect from the cold?'

he did not even give enough time to answer and already seated you down to the closest table.

'please wait here.'

how embarrassing! you rushed here to fast just thinking about him and even ran out of breath on the way here! thank god zhongli is so dense he did not question you more or teased you.

'here.'

he slid a coffee cup towards you and you immediately smiled.

he had made a heart latte! for you!

'i actually wanted to come and visit you but this place was so busy and i did not know your address. it would have been inappropriate. but, i finally used the things you taught me.'

and as zhongli sits down across from you; he is so happy to share what happened and all the things he did thanks to you.

sure, the business bloomed in this place but it seems like love has started to bloom as well.

(venti doesn't have to worry about his wine anymore and your manager is definitely calling themselves cupid.)

#genshin impact #genshin impact headcanons #for real i could have just turned this into a fic but i asked for headcanon requests sooo #this is like half half #genshin zhongli #genshin impact x reader #zhongli x reader #obviously gender neutral #not obey me

102 notes · View notes

merthurkissfest · 5 years ago

Text

Merthur Kiss Fest 2019 Masterlist

The Merthur Kiss Fest has concluded for yet another year! We're sad to see it go, but so very glad that it happened. Quick apology for the wait, as this was meant to go up a bit ago already. But thank you all for your patience. <3

We have a total of (drumroll please)... 61 works this year! That's incredible!!

A huge thank you and round of applause to our amazing writers and artists for their wonderful contributions, whose hard work is at the heart and soul of this fest, as well as to the creator and my fellow mod, @arthur-of-the-pendragons, who did most of the work putting this together and keeping it running, and last but not least, to the rest of the community who spread the word, shared the work, and left kudos and comments!

I know I speak for the both of us when I say that none of this would've been possible without the love, dedication, and generosity of the Merlin community. So from the bottom of our tiny little fangirl hearts, Thank you. Under the cut is the masterlist of all the works. I would like to ask that the creators check over it and let me know ASAP if there's any mistakes, or anything I missed! Thank you!

✧･ﾟ: * 🌸 SPRING 🌸 *:･ﾟ✧

Of Sunrises and Stardust by Victori Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 903 Summary: "Merlin had lived through a thousand springs, and had learned that nothing ever began again. Spring wasn’t hope; it was a cycle, one that came and went as Merlin stood still and watched it fly by. Spring was life as a reminder of death." OR Merlin has been waiting too long, and is on the verge of giving up. But his destiny was written in the stars, and it's not willing to let him go that easily.

A Better Fate than Wisdom: About a Secret by Leandra Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 3200 Summary: In which Arthur is drunk, Merlin is inconvenienced and secrets are kept, but barely.The first part in a four-part series for the Merlin/Arthur Kiss Fest 2019. Each part will feature a different season, a different set of kisses and at least one trope :-)Series Title comes from the e.e.cummings poem "since feeling is first": and kisses are a better fate than wisdom. MERRY XMAS!!!

April Violets (Five First Kisses) by athousandvictories [FIC+ART] Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 5604 Summary: Merlin's journey to his last first kiss, or five stories of new beginnings. A set of behind-the-scenes moments beginning before Merlin goes to Camelot. Vaguely canon compliant until the end. Plenty of drunken idiocy and poorly executed flirtation. Because we deserve it.

In Which Arthur Gets Jealous of an Owl by AeonTheDimensionalGirl Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 3482 Summary: Arthur decided he must officially be going insane if he was suddenly craving Merlin’s liking after seeing the owl give fond peaks to the raven haired servant.

A Springtime Betrothal by tehfanglyfish Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 2213 Summary: It’s a beautiful spring day – the perfect setting for young royals to enter into a betrothal. Too bad Princess Elena is convinced that Arthur is a would-be assassin, out to kill her with a poisoned kiss. To prove that there is no danger, Arthur has no choice but to kiss Merlin, leading to several unexpected, though not unwelcome, developments.

Spring Night (oh so wrong) by CandiceWright Rating: E Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1509 Summary: Because ever since Gwen left Arthur’s looks have been hotter than his touches, his few words filled with unspoken promises that Merlin is scared to take. He’s scared because he doesn’t want it to be just a remedy for his fractured pride, doesn't want it to be done out of spite. But he does want it, he really does. And now Arthur's gaze is heavy upon him, making his body shiver in anticipation and all he can think is this is wrong, wrong. But then Arthur tells him to come to his bed, and how could Merlin say no to that?

Weaving Crowns by Mischel [FIC+ART] Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 569 Summary: Now that Merlin and Arthur are both kings and married, they hardly have time for each other anymore. Merlin's decided to do something about it, and he takes Arthur to a meadow, where they can finally have a moment alone to- make flower crowns? Well, that's not what Arthur expected. (But maybe that's exactly what he needed.)

Blossom by Blossom by Caledonia Rating: Not Rated Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1614 Summary: Merlin builds floral crowns in advance of the spring celebrations, and there is a secret hidden in Arthur's."Blossom by blossom the spring begins." Algernon Charles Swinburne

Spring (cleaning) Kisses by Lao-Pendragon [ART] Rating: Not Rated

Young Man’s Fancy by Caledonia Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1866 Summary: Merlin's mum has moved to a quaint village with a strangely competitive spring tradition. Cue Merlin being clumsy and Arthur manning the first aid tent. "In the Spring a young man's fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love." - Alfred Lord Tennyson

Love in Spring by CallMeHopeless and Maryluis [FIC+ART] Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 2026 Summary: Arthur and Merlin are in a secret relationship - for now. Hiding their love takes a toll on them both and communicating with each other isn’t much better...

King in a (flower) crown by brokenfannibal_art [ART] Rating: G Summary: I saw a post a while back about how the children of the lower town probably make flower crowns for Merlin. And lets be honest Arthur would absolutely melt when he saw Merlin wearing one. Of course Merlin would make one for Arthur as well.

The gifts from Spring by Shadow_Hole Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1487 Summary: Once, Gaius had told him that Spring, would eventually notice Merlin’s hardships and will gift him with what he needed the most, a ‘helping hand from nature’ as the old men had said at the time. Merlin knew that this wasn't true.

True Love’s Kiss by broken_fannibal Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 3705 Summary: Arthur was cursed by a water spirit to drown himself in a certain lake. Will they be able to find a way to lift the curse? A race against time begins.

I Need Your Hand by FervidAsAFlame Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 2781 Summary: Gwen manages to drag her best friend Arthur to the university’s semi-formal dance, even though he won’t stop sulking that his boyfriend can’t make it. Luckily, Gwen’s got a surprise for him.

Dog Walking Disaster by surprisinglyblunt Rating: M Chapters: 3/4 Word Count: 4540 Summary: When Merlin finds a lost dog after one of the worst encounters of his life, he thinks fate might be punishing him for something, but is it really punishment or is the universe actually on his side this time?

✧･ﾟ: * 🔆 SUMMER 🔆 *:･ﾟ✧

Merlin’s Knight by AeonTheDimensionalGirl Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 8537 Summary: He comes in the dark of night; never speaking or letting his full face show, but Merlin appreciates the company anyway.After all, who’s foolish enough to venture into the dungeons and comfort an accused sorcerer?

A Better Fate than Wisdom: About a Transgression by Leandra Rating: M Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 5738 Summary: Merlin had joined him in the water, coming towards him with long, even strokes of his arm. He was a good swimmer, better than most of Arthur’s knights and he caught up with Arthur quickly, briefly ducking and diving underneath the water to emerge just in front of him with a grin and water streaming down his face, his hair plastered against his skull, his ears seemingly more prominent than usual. Arthur felt his earlier confusion slip away. It was just Merlin. Clumsy, bumbling, ridiculous Merlin with his silly ears and too insolent grin.-*- After riding all day during a heatwave, Arthur and Merlin stop for a swim. A bit of roughhousing turns awkward and Arthur finds out that silly ears or not, there's just something about Merlin ;-)

Going Underground by Caledonia Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1628 Summary: Merlin is stuck on a sweltering hot underground train and he considers getting off and walking home instead. That is until a rather handsome blond man boards the train beside Merlin and things begin to get interesting.

Arthur - The Prince to never get anything by CallMeHopeless and Maryluis [FIC+ART] Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 2779 Summary: 5 Times Merlin does something nice for people who are not Arthur. And one time, when it's finally Arthur's turn.

Hold My Hand, Let the Waves Come by Mischel Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 834 Summary: The world is full of new and exciting experiences for Arthur now that he came back from Avalon. But standing only in his "special swimming underwear" on an overcrowded beach where it feels like hundreds of people are watching him, doesn't seem like one of them.Merlin is there to help him realize that even with many more people than Arthur is used to, it can still be fun when they're together :)

And Turn the White Snow Red as Strawberries in Summertime by Caledonia Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 910 Summary: Arthur and Merlin conjure memories of summer while cooped up during a winter storm.

Boys of Summer by Victori Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 4450 Summary: "It started, as most problems in Merlin’s life, with a boy. A bloody gorgeous boy, with eyes as blue as the sea and wet blond hair plastered to his forehead. An Adonis if there ever was one, complete with a Roman nose. A boy who Merlin spilled Rocky Road all over in a stunning display of clumsiness."ORMerlin and Arthur met, fell in love, and messed it up. Maybe their summer romance isn't as far gone as they think.

Summer of New Beginnings (what I would do for you) by CandiceWright Rating: M Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1801 Summary: That night Merlin sees just how deep the wound of Agravaine’s betrayal is. He wants to hold him and tell him that everything will be okay, that he won’t have to go through the same thing again but he can’t because he’s betraying him far more than anyone else ever has and it hurts.

Sweet Summer Kisses by Nattymctatty [ART] Rating: Not Rated

Can We Always Be This Close by tehfanglyfish Rating: E Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 7982 Summary: Merlin takes a trip to Ealdor to tend his mother’s farm while she visits a friend in another village. He thinks he’ll have a week of solitude until Arthur decides to tag along. The days they spend together lead to numerous revelations.Or… the one where the author indulges Arthur and allows him to run off to a farm with Merlin.

Arthur’s Flowers by lefayart [ART] Rating: Not Rated Summary: Arthur gets what he asked for.... but only because he asked nicely.

A Day at the Lake by Impala_Chick Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1080 Summary: It's too hot in the Castle, so Arthur and Merlin sneak off to the lake to cool off.

✧･ﾟ: * 🍁 FALL 🍁 *:･ﾟ✧

Trembling Fingers and Sure Strides by arsenicandsunshine Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 2474 Summary: It's a beautiful day, the birds are singing, the sun is shining. Merlin's nervous as fuck. For no good reason, either. It's a tournament, like any other tournament. Nothing to indicate Arthur is in danger of dying. At least, not today.

Take Me Apart by tehfanglyfish Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1212 Summary: One otherwise dull autumn day, Arthur meets an insolent stranger in the Camelot marketplace who claims to be able to take him apart with less than one blow. Arthur decides to let him try.

A Better Fate than Wisdom: About Attraction by Leandra Rating: E Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 5861 Summary: “Seriously, Merlin,” Arthur drawled, stepping closer and halting his hands, “you are so terribly clumsy, it’s a wonder you haven’t cut something off with your sickle that isn’t a rye ear.” He reached with steady fingers, hooking the waterskin safely back into Merlin’s belt. They were standing close, so close, and Arthur’s hands were at his waist and Merlin, who was already flustered, felt his heart skip a beat. Please, he thought, please, not knowing what it really was he wanted. He sighed in relief when Arthur stepped back to pick up his sickle again and bent to retrieve his own. *-* Sex pollen, a rye field, filthy kissing and too many feelings.

Of Foreign Nobility and Hidden Magic by AeonTheDimensionalGirl Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 5709 Summary: Merlin’s fair skin should not be covered in dark purple bruises.

Kissing It Better by Mischel Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 685 Summary: Merlin and Arthur are on an important mission, but the weather betrays them and they end up being chased through a forest all the way to a cliff. There are only two options now - jump or be killed, and, well . . . kissing isn't one of them. So . . . what are you doing, Arthur?

I love you with or without fleas by CallMeHopeless and Maryluis [FIC+ART] Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1627 Summary: Morgana challenges Arthur to kiss the Person he loves most...

From Love We Fall (I want to understand) by CandiceWright Rating: M Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1138 Summary: Merlin doesn’t talk to Arthur after his betrothal to Gwen. He helps with the preparations, he can’t not, but he can’t bear to talk to Arthur after what he did. And Arthur makes no effort to talk to him either. His eyes still follow him while he’s doing his chores, refusing to utter a single word, not even to explain. Not that Merlin would listen to anything he has to say. Because after all they’ve been through, after what they’ve shared he deserves more than him just fucking him and leaving him alone. He feels used, betrayed. And he knows in his heart that it wasn’t meant to last, but he knows just as much that what they had was real, the love was there. But he can’t do it anymore, not like this. Not when he feels like he can’t get out of bed every morning, when every step he takes feels like torture, when he’s forced to see everyone’s happiness at the prospect of having a new and wonderful queen.

Foiled By Fall by MapleBreeze Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1597 Summary: Arthur decides to pick flowers as an anonymous gift for Merlin but is hit with the realization that it is Autumn and this is no longer a simple task. But this is only the first way his plan goes wrong.

Deliration of Love by arsenicandsunshine Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 2653 Summary: Tall. Blonde hair. Blue eyes. Shimmers in the sun. Is an utter prat. How could anyone not fall in love with Arthur Pendragon? Don't fall in love with destiny. Merlin has given up any hope of those deepest secrets of his ever coming to light and resigned himself to being happy because Arthur was happy. With someone else. Arthur may just surprise him once again. Or. In sorting through his feelings after banishing Gwen, Arthur realizes there's another person he's been stifling his emotions for.

Dead Ends and New Beginnings by Caledonia Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1827 Summary: On a beautiful, sunny autumn day Merlin agrees to accompany his friends to a corn maze, not telling any of them that he's just a little bit claustrophobic. He ends up in a dead-end of the maze with only Arthur where Arthur tries to calm him and comfort him by sharing a fear of his own.

Lavender by Excaliburstark Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1373 Summary: Merlin likes to please his king and Arthur likes his baths.

✧･ﾟ: * ❄️ WINTER ❄️ *:･ﾟ✧

Well I Won’t Be Your Winter by Caledonia Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1582 Summary: Stranded in a cave during a winter blizzard, Merlin must use magic to light the fire. He knows this will be a death sentence for himself, but hopefully, Arthur will be saved. But first, Merlin will fulfil the promise he had made himself."I am going to do something now that will make you want to kill me, and then I am going to do something that will make it easier."

Even The Weariest River by Caledonia Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1306 Summary: Arthur is offered many things in life that he does not want, and the one thing he does want he believes he is utterly unworthy of.(I'm sorry- this one is quite angsty-read the tags, please <3)

Blame it on the Mistletoe by Caledonia Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 792 Summary: Merlin works for Arthur which means he's out of bounds. Except maybe it's time to change that...Or, why you should never invite your sister as your date to the office Christmas Party.

popcorn & prats by cominupforair Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 3434 Summary: In which Merlin really wants to spend NYE on his own, but Arthur is a prat.

Kiss Him! by tehfanglyfish Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1291 Summary: After being abducted by an infuriating dragon, Arthur finds Merlin unresponsive, suffering ill-effects from a sorcerer's attack. According to the dragon, there's only way for Arthur to save him.

One Thing To Make You Mine by FervidAsAFlame Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 9907 Summary: When Arthur asks for Merlin’s help with asking someone out for Valentine’s Day, Merlin does his best to give his friend excellent advice -- even if he’d rather it was him Arthur was asking out. Unsurprisingly, Arthur seems up to the task of pulling this mystery man, but Merlin can’t help but wonder – who could he be? And why does Arthur keep testing all his methods on Merlin first?

Untitled by Kawaroki [ART] Rating: Not Rated Summary: merthur kissfest: winter ❄

Superstitious Love Confessions by CallMeHopeless and MaryLuis [FIC+ART] Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 2821 Summary: Arthur is gifted a plant. It is not mistletoe. So what is he doing holding it over his head?

No Scorching Sun Nor Freezing Coly (Or Interrupting Owls and Knights) by AeonTheDimentionalGirl Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 3620 Summary: It’s moments like these, in which they’re not master and servant or king and (secret) warlock, just Arthur and Merlin, that Merlin most treasures.

A Better Fate than Wisdom: About Truth by Leandra Rating: E Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 10117 Summary: “Was everything else a lie, too?” he asked darkly, hating the desperation in his tone, thinking of the friendship he valued so much, of Merlin laughing at his jokes, of fighting side by side and how it had given him strength again and again, knowing that Merlin would always be there, would always choose to stand with him, no matter what. Of Merlin’s soft sob of pleasure, gasped into his mouth as his fingers clawed the small of his back. *-* Arthur finds out that Merlin has magic. Conclusion of the series.

It was all yellow/they shine for you by Excaliburstark Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 956 Summary: The apple bowl scene with a twist

Next Year Then, Stranger by Mischel Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 1658 Summary: When Merlin tells Arthur the news that he'll be moving from Ealdor to Camelot, Arthur can't contain his delight and kisses Merlin right there, in the snowy meadow. This is the story of Merlin and Arthur who had known each other for years but could only ever meet once a year in the winter. This is the moment that changes their lives forever.

The Shape of My Beautiful Lies by Caledonia Rating: M Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 2451 Summary: Merlin’s fingertips were thieves. They mapped the surface of Arthur’s body in fleeting, casual touches, and they stole. Merlin was not allowed to touch his king, not in the ways that he wanted; so when he went about his duties he made every contact an unrequited crime.

Paper Planes by Excaliburstark Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 585 Summary: Merlin is leaving on a flight to Venezuela where he'll live with his dad for a while.

Always Break My Fall by arsenicandsunshine Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 2459 Summary: Merlin may be a police constable, but that doesn't mean he can ice skate. A fact he's been hiding from his best mate who just insisted on dragging him ice skating. His best mate who also made it clear he doesn't feel the same way about Merlin as Merlin does about him. How the hell did he let Arthur drag him ice skating, of all things? Oh right, Merlin has no willpower where a certain blonde prat is concerned. This is going to end well.

We are Nowhere and It’s Now by theskyisgay Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 4462 Summary: The waiting, and what comes after.

The Future Queen Commands by tehfanglyfish Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 3026 Summary: The outbreak of a midwinter fever leaves the castle short staffed and Arthur in the uncomfortable position of looking after four small children. Who knew that children had so much energy? Or that they asked so many nosy questions? And were quite skilled at getting answers? By no means did the king of Camelot expect a little girl to discover a secret he’d been keeping for years, one involving Merlin and feelings, or to put him in a position where he must reveal it.

like a lover (with no shame) by Elizabeth Rating: M Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 2029 Summary: The last bitter freeze of winter finds Arthur and Merlin deep in the forest. Ever gallant, Arthur is willing to go to great lengths to keep his manservant alive and unfrozen. He'll share his cloak, his bedding, and--if he must--even the warmth of his own body. Spring is almost here, but not without one final bedwarming fic for the Merthur Kiss Fest 2019/20. Thanks for Amnesty Week! "Midmorning sun is casting its rays against the tent walls, and Arthur is having his way with his half-sleeping manservant. He slept half the day, and he’s holding Merlin like a lover, with no shame."

What Winter Took Away (love is not enough) by CandiceWright Rating: M Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 4290 Summary: But Arthur is hurt and his words cut through Merlin like a knife. How could they not? Saying that he admires him only to dismiss him in the next breath. And if that's the last time he's going to see his King he wishes he could be remembered as the brave one, the lionheart, not the coward that he appears to be now, that he feels like he is. But it isn't the last time, it can't be. He will see him again even if he has to tear the earth in half to do so. He can and he will.With that thought in mind, he leaves the castle to go to the crystal cave.

Dark Before Dawn by MapleBreeze Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 3227 Summary: During a winter feast, Merlin still longs for a brighter future. But, for the present, all he has is stolen moments with Arthur.

Freoðuweard by Camelittle Rating: G Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 100 Summary: Arthur pays tribute to his friend. Avalon looks on.

✧･ﾟ: * 🌸🔆 ALL SEASONS 🍁❄️ *:･ﾟ✧

The Four Times That It was Forbidden (And the One Time it Wasn’t) by sdewan6 Rating: T+ Chapters: 3/5 Word Count: 3815 Summary: “Bloody Hell, Merlin, I care so much I think I’ll kill myself if you ever leave me. If there's ever a day where I don’t love you, you can stab me in the heart. Surely you do not think that lowly of me, do you? I love-” He had a quiet, unreadable expression his face. “No,” he said softly, cutting him off. “Stop. I’m sorry. I just- I can’t can’t keep on doing this.” Four times Merlin and Arthur shared forbidden kisses, and the one time it wasn't forbidden at all.

From Grey Into Golden by witching_wingthorns Rating: T+ Chapters: 1/1 Word Count: 693 Summary: It starts simple enough with an arrogant prince and a brave peasant It starts simple with playful banter and the beginnings of a friendship with a challenge and an answer, a fight you should’ve won A poem from Arthur’s perspective, a love letter, really, describing his countless lives with Merlin.

#merthur #bbc merlin #arthur pendragon #merlin fest #merthur fest #merthur kiss fest 2019 #merthur kiss fest 2019 spring kisses #merthur kiss fest 2019 summer kisses #merthur kiss fest 2019 autumn kisses #merthur kiss fest 2019 winter kisses #merthur kiss fest 2019 masterlist #merthur kiss fest masterlist #masterlist

183 notes · View notes

smuttymess · 5 years ago

Text

bts astro soulmate reading | for cassandra

sign: taurus sun | libra moon | virgo rising

lover: kim namjoon | soulmate: min yoongi

This reading is for Cassandra, a fellow NY area moot and SOPE double bias - taste! I hope you enjoy this one, love. <3

With your sun Taurus, you are the “producer” of the zodiac, known for your reason, practicality, dedication, and strength. Whether at work or your personal life, know how to set intentions and explore them with patience, diligence and determination that only an earth sign can possess. While you are prone to frequent anxiety and worry in your internal world, on the outside your persona manifests as cool, calm and reasoned as you generally try to take time to think and observe before reacting. Your down to earth persona and innate goodness is very reassuring to others, offering a refuge from the harsh realities of daily life, which in turn attracts many people into your orbit - you have a quiet, naturally confident charm about you that makes people feel secure in your presence. This is only further enhanced by your Libra moon, the cornerstone of your notably friendly personality that people admire you for and you take pride in. Optimistic about the goodness of others, you are extremely loyal - your Virgo rising helps you wisely choose your relationships carefully so as to protect your ego and your sensitive soul. You certainly don’t trust everyone, but there is nothing you will not do to achieve harmony and balance amongst these various important figures in your life. You value relationships that can go the distance, and want longevity and depth in your personal and romantic world.

When it comes to your surroundings, you appreciate life’s many luxuries, but you prefer to stay far away from the superficial or fleeting material world. Your Taurus Sun/Virgo rising means that you want nice things, but are in all ways a quality over quantity type of person, which is reflected in the things you enjoy. Your classy, refined Moon in Libra also supports your deep appreciation for the finer but simpler things in life in moderate quantities: good wine, the arts, and serenity of the natural world. If you could pick your ideal evening, you’d rather enjoy a beautifully chef crafted meal with the best ingredients or a yoga session in the park with your closest friends than a raucous night of debauchery at a club. A true Libra Moon, you are a pro at bringing people together, and your home is your sanctuary which you are pleased to share with others as regularly as possible. It is at one of the many intimate dinner parties that you organize at your home that you meet Kim Namjoon, a guest of a mutual friend. He is striking in his presence, but not intentionally so. You are attracted to equally high-quality individuals, and so its no surprise you are drawn to Namjoon whose Mercury in Libra exhibits a quiet strength and intellectual nature akin to your own, though he is more reserved in nature. From across the table, you can’t help but find yourself staring and wondering what he is thinking, how easily your hands could slide beneath his grey sweater, or how his lips would feel against your nipples. Though he is not seated directly next to you, as the night goes on you find yourselves closer and closer to each other, your quiet, understated charm workings its magic until you are practically attached at the hip on a couch in the corner of the room, immersed in conversation. He is highly attracted to your optimism, energy, intellect and beauty but also the practicality of your Virgo rising (which his Sun directly resonates with.) In those initial hours it seems you talk about everything and nothing, time standing still as the party continues to buzz around you.

From that night on, it becomes clear that his stoic Virgo never stood a chance against your star combination: a lethal combination of intention (Taurus Sun), flirtation (Libra Moon) and execution (Virgo rising). In the months that you spend together, you are thrown into an intellectual and physical affair that could only be achieved by two, grounded earth signs - though it takes some time getting off the ground. Though equally hesitant to dive into a deeply romantic relationship, you are the one to take the lead to act on those basic, primal thoughts you had that first night you met him, and decide not to waste time in fucking his brains out. It is not unusual for you to invite Namjoon over for drinks and conversation, with barely a full hour passing before you’re straddling him on your couch. It’s amazing how you how quickly you can go from casually talking current events and social justice issues to having him sucking and biting on your nipples as you ride him mercilessly into the cushions. Namjoon is an absolute perfectionist, and you enjoy the precision in which he uses his fingers to expertly rub tour clit, his eyes ablaze as he takes in the full view of you nakedly bouncing up and down on his cock. You two are not ones to mess with a good thing, valuing frequent satisfying, sure-fire approaches to getting each other off before indulging in pillow talk about your shared hopes and dreams of the future. While Namjoon often presents as unemotional or subdued, with you he feels uninhibited, strong, and irresistible. He is able to lose himself with you as your eyes lock in pure, unadulterated lust while he thrusts into you, his name spilling repeatedly from his lips. Oh my god, yes, you take me so fucking well, baby...you’re so beautiful. I could fuck you just like this forever, just like this.

Your inner and outer Libra seeks to please, negotiate and bring peace to those in conflict in order to be seen as kind, reasonable and fair in the eyes of others - it is then that you feel you have succeeded in your goal. You are generally easy going, and diplomatic while he is argumentative, frank and serious. Namjoon’s Virgo sun is often more interested in more definitive outcomes and engaging in lengthy debate to come to a more or less "correct” answer, which contradicts your internal desire for balance and to avoid conflict. With his Sun in Virgo and Cancer in Mars, he especially sees conflict as a necessary and even enjoyable part of life that leads to growth. Eventually, not even hot-and-heavy makeup sex can ease the resentment you feel from his often argumentative and critical nature. This, combined with his inability to give you the full time and attention you require in a partnership, forces you to walk away and find someone more tailored to cater to your sensitive, emotional heart.

After your breakup with Namjoon, you take a good deal of time to reconnect with friends and family in the comfort of your own home. It is only after friends finally drag you out back into the real world that you are reminded of your naturally social nature, quickly shedding your fear around getting back out there - after all, you strive for balance and too much solitude can leave you feeling depleted and craving social energy. On one of these nights you attend a whiskey tasting, wherein you are immediately drawn to the boy at the end of the bar in his black bucket hat that hides most of his face. Clearly knowledgeable of his spirits and friendly with the bartender, you decide to get to know him further by discussing his recommendations directly. Upon bringing his eyes to meet yours and introduce himself as Min Yoongi, you are taken aback by his beauty and gentle but firm energy - there is a kindness in his slightly glossy eyes that you can feel, and it’s extremely attractive to your generally reserved heart. While his Virgo Moon is reserved, Yoongi is incredibly charming, fully understanding your subtle flirtation and using his knowledge of whiskey and very carefully spoken, deliberate speech (and sexy low voice) to get to you. It is not too long before you find yourself tipsily pressed against his side, your eyes moving between his lips and his delicate fingers that draw circles around his glass. His eyes move from your lust-filled stare to your curves as they are accentuated in your casual ensemble, and you swear you see his tongue move across his lower lip as he takes you in. But before you’re able to verify, he closes out your tabs. You’re not ready to hang with the big drinkers, love. How about I call you cab home?

Your relationship blossoms in the light of day, outside of the haze of the whiskey bar and in cafes around city or in your respective homes as you’re both homebodies and romantics at heart. When water and earth signs come together, there is often a very symbiotic relationship at play. Though initially stoic in his persona, the Pisces Yoongi is emotional, compassionate, sentimental which pairs well with your romantic Libra tendencies. Yoongi, the endlessly hard worker and creative force, makes every effort to see, hear and get to know you all the while giving you a great deal of attention which you appreciate. You adore his ability to give you ample quality time, which you require in a partner, while also affording the independence you need to progress on your own. Luckily, his Venus in Aries makes him more direct and enterprising in areas like his career so it balances out his more lethargic side that simply wants to lay in bed and talk about big picture ideas and fantasize about a better world. Like you, he seeks equilibrium between work and play, and is successful in helping you establish said coveted balance in your own life as a trusted partner and friend. He teaches you to let go and trust the process, while you show him the beauty in said process.

You and Yoongi understand each other on a deep level beyond traditional communication, and when the conversation ends you are easily able to use nonverbal communication to express how you truly feel. It is here where the two of you are able to be authentically yourselves without the pressures of the right words or expectations - you intuitively know what the other wants and needs. Yoongi’s exceptional creativity and desire to please extends to the bedroom, where his skills merge with his imaginative nature with you, taking you for a literal ride. Your Virgo rising equips you with a strong mind-body connection, making you an attentive and very deliberate in bed, while Yoongi is more interested in transcending the physical. Sex with him is entirely sensual, an all-consuming means of pleasing each other - he does not stop until your toes are curling and your entire body shakes in tension and arousal. You can feel your eyes roll back when his lips purr against you as his tongue circles your clit, two fingers slipping in and out of your aching center. You have no idea how amazing you taste. How lucky am I, hmm? It is not unusual for you to pin him to the bed after he’s been away too long in the studio, nibbling at his neck and making him growl in your ear. He knows what you want, his gorgeous hands grabbing your hips and pressing you down onto him before sliding your shorts to the side and slipping two fingers into you, curling them to hit your g-spot. Has my baby been waiting long for me? So impatient, are we? Come on, show how much you missed me.

Ultimately, you and Min Yoongi are able to come together as two sensitive, diplomatic, and create souls to create a life of harmony and deep intimacy - he is your muse and you are his anchor. While you are driven and high-achieving in select areas of your lives, you both are no strangers to rest and relaxation after a long, hard day’s work. Together, you create a true sanctuary just outside of the city where you can spend a great deal of time crafting art - he in his studio and you in your own workspace - or making meals together in your enviable kitchen. Know that through life’s inevitable ups and downs you have each other to rely on, and your shared fierce loyalty towards one another can whether any stress-related emotional outburst or time apart due to his fast-paced lifestyle. At the end of the day, you are happy to find that after years of searching you do not anything outside of your the four walls - or each others arms - to find peace.

#bts #bts astrology #astrology readings #horoscope #fiction #taurus #virgo #pisces #bangtan #bangtan astrology

5 notes · View notes

j0shaw0tt · 7 years ago

Audio

Once in a Blue Moon, an original compositon~

Happy 5th Anniversary, my love @ceruleanmoonlight~ This one goes out to you <3

This... Is for you, Alexia. I won’t make an intro like I do with my other pieces because this is directly for you. I played and began writing this around the beginning of the year, knowing fully well that I would need time to create something given how busy I have been that I couldn’t practice as often as I liked. It may be basic of me to write yet another song for you, but.. For now, it’s all I have, and what you’ll be hearing for the rest of our life together.~ This is a song I made for us, to represent our journey so far...

I was a fool when we first met, but I was a fool that fell in love. You know very well the things I’ve done, and even if I can’t forgive myself all the way yet for my past, I have you mostly to thank for my recovery and for helping me appreciate myself, something that has taken me the longest to do. I never thought anyone could love me as I grew up, I was just an annoying, weird kid who grew up to be some wannabe flirt who can’t stop telling a dirty joke to save his life, hah! Even when we first met, my flirting wasn’t too confident, I felt like I was just being a dork. Here we are five years later though, even with the bumps in the road, I can’t find anyone I love and trust more. You... Really feel like my soulmate. Not in the way that people say they were made for each other nor belong together but... We deserve each other.

We have both been through some tough times together. Dealing with self confidence and our skills, the ridicule of those around us, and just this distance alone has been the real challenge. But, I just knew that we would be okay. You give me strength, Alexia, and you are a pillar to me. You may not think you show enough love to me, but you couldn’t be more wrong! It’s because of you that I could feel proud of myself and how far I’ve come, instead of dwelling on my past mistakes and failures. If I were left alone with my thoughts a while ago, I don’t think I would have become the bright, “charming” guy I am today. You really help me appreciate who I am for loving me after this long, and all our talks of our future together only inspire me more to improve. For not only you and us, but for myself and those I love, especially you. These were my thoughts when I wrote this for us, and you may not be able to hear it the way I do, but I wrote this to sound a little bittersweet, but I reprises into something romantic and loving, showing how our relationship has blossomed. To me, it represents both of us as we grew together, and how our bond has made us as loving and strong as we are today, and how we will continue to be! Isn’t that right, babe?~

Now, the title will probably make you roll your eyes, but it should be flattering, hehe! You have stayed my moon angel after all these years, but us meeting must have been a miracle, as rare as a blue moon in fact, eheh. I treat our meeting as a lucky chance, and now whenever I look at your title and username, I get reminded of such facts! My love for the stars and yours for the moon, its a match made in heaven, dontcha think?~ As cliche as the title is, I do think it’s fitting for the melody I’ve made to represent our journey. Sort of sad, but overall sweet, relaxing/calming, and full of love and affection, just like us from then to now. See, there’s another reason your love specifically has inspired me! You truly are my muse, Alexia, I only hope I inspire you as much as you inspire me. I can’t imagine looking under these stars or appreciating the moon without you in mind now, and I can’t wait for the many nights we will spend together under them both...

For now, this is dedicated to five years of love and friendship, you are truly my best friend for life,and I will support you and your goals till the end of our days and whatever comes after, okay? I truly, truly appreciate you and everything you’ve done for me and for those around you. You are the most beautiful soul I’ve met, and I am the luckiest man to be able to share my own with you. Let this be the beginning of the many more years we will share together, another memory to cherish, and an honor to this life long companionship I know we have formed. One day, I want to marry you, Alexia. You better be prepared for then~

I love you with all my heart and soul, and I hope this song reaches into your own and feels every ounce of love I’ve put into it. Hopefully I can get back into the mix of practicing, but know that I haven’t lost my touch with the piano yet! I’ll continue to refine my art as you do with yours, babe! Till then, thank you again for these happy years together. I can’t imagine life without you,and I truly am grateful for you being in my life. Thank you. Thank you for everything. I hope to become a man worthy of your love, even if you say I already am. Let us fortify our relationship into the future, where one day I will play this song for you, in person~ I love you so much, Alexia. You truly are the light of my life. <3

#piano #j0shaw0tt #piano with josh #alexia #<3 #happy anniversary my love #thank you for these many years of love #and here to many many more #<333333

6 notes · View notes

elane-in-the-shadows · 7 years ago

Text

Red Queen Fan Fiction - Blood Curse part 11

Find this on wattpad

chapter 1

chapter 2

chapter 3

chapter 4

chapter 5

chapter 6

chapter 7

chapter 8

chapter 9

chapter 10

chapter 11

chapter 12

chapter 13

chapter 14

chapter 15

chapter 16

chapter 17

chapter 18

chapter 19

chapter 20

chapter 21

chapter 22

chapter 23

chapter 24

chapter 25

chapter 26

chapter 27

chapter 28

chapter 29

Final chapter

A/N: Finally, the long-awaited (by me) wedding chapter. If you don’t like my OCs, skip the first half. Then Maven appears, what rare occasion ;-) Fashion pics are at the end.

Cassandra POV

The crown weighs heavy on my head although it’s made only of sakura twigs and blossoms, the pale pink petals matching the light shade of my silk dress.

All guests of my brother Hagen Eagrie’s wedding with Larissa Welle wear flower crowns today. The bride’s grown and shaped them herself, and put them on every brow, having chosen them carefully to match the guests’ clothing and preferences. More flowers wind along the walls and corners of the Eagries’ large mansion in Archeon, other bouquets are carefully arranged in numerous vases placed on pillars.

The smell should be overwhelming but it isn’t. Lari’s too great a mistress of her greenwarden ability, so I suppose she created the flowers especially not to have a strong odour. Yet their perfume is ever-present – and pleasant, at least to me. The smell changes slightly the closer I move to the garden, probably intentionally as well. Maybe a metaphor for the seasons; I haven’t asked Lari yet. It’s another artwork among the many she designed for her wedding to be impressive and unique. As the flowers’ smell is contributed to her groom: Since Hagen is unable to see the decorations, Lari made it possible to sense them in other ways.

Just makes me wonder what the food will be like.

I gather my skirt in my hand as I descend the stairs to the reception hall. The dress is unusual to me, hence I’m most likely lifting it too high. The gown widens along my thighs but it’s tight otherwise, urging me to ponder how to fight in it. I chide myself for the thought but it’s less for paranoia than for the wish to protect this dress from damage that I make such considerations. It becomes me marvellously. Short, frilly sleeves, a low cleavage, the tightness accentuating both my curves and my muscles while enabling me to dance. The seams have a more intense colour, a vibrant fuchsia; it’s the same shade I chose for my lipstick and eyeliner. Sakura are embroidered on the skirt, following the colour pattern of pale pink, fuchsia, and every shade in between as the yarns fade from intense into pastel.

All in all, it’s simple but the most beautiful gown I’ve ever worn.

I catch a glimpse of someone standing at the foot the stairs and I almost stumble when I notice it’s Sorata. He smirks at my efforts to remain ladylike. He’s as much a gentleman in his swallow-tailed coat, despite being a Red. What the right clothing can do for you – how many “noble” guests will be confused by his presence, and rightly so. He’s better than them and deserves to be my partner at the wedding party. And more. He’s dressed to match my outfit. Where I carry a crown of pink cherry blossoms, he wears white ones while his cravat and pocket square show pink embroidery. It’s obvious for anyone looking close enough that we are … together.

He bows and kisses my hand, slightly more serious. I curtsey in response and fail, my knees pointing in the wrong directions. He laughs until he coughs. “Unused to formalities, Cassie?”

“Tsk.” But I giggle as well. “I’ll have to train before the queen arrives.”

“I suppose she values your other skills more,” he says. “But I am content as long as I receive your first dance.”

“I promise.” He pulls me close for a faint kiss, then guides me down the corridor to the garden where the ceremony will take place. There’s no one else, so I’m wondering if we’re late and the guests have already arrived, with only the bride and groom to show up.

“Are you ready for a grand entrance?” I ask.

He sighs. “Whenever else will we have the chance – “ he trails off and stops walking, turning us sideways to another pillar in an oriel.

It displays a wreath for a guest, braided from poppies and cornflowers. Simple plants, but their orange and blue colours are as brilliant as fire.

“That’s hers,” I breathe. “Firebird’s. Lacey’s.”

He nods. We stare at the crown dedicated to my absent cousin, either a hostage or a collaborator of the Scarlet Guard, depending on the perspective. Sorata leans against me, his hand skimming my neck as he whispers in my ear. “You’ve heard from her?”

“Only that she’s alive. And occupied, whatever that means.”

He inclines his head and kisses my cheek. “They trust me more,” he says quietly. “The king is rumoured to return here soon, and Archeon might become a target again.”

He draws away, smiling like he didn’t talk treason a second ago. “Excited for the ceremony, madam?”

“Of course I am, Mr. Ives.” And I mean it. At least Lari and Hagen will have this before all hell will break loose.

Indeed, the garden is already filled with guests seated on filigree chairs. Ribbons fixed on poles create the illusion of a room and a roof on the meadow-like green although breezes and sunbeams filter through. We have a magnificent weather for September and the approaching autumn is only announced by the golden and reddening foliage on the trees farther off. My family stands at the front and we part to join them, each of us going along one outer side of the congregation; the middle aisle is reserved for the bridal couple.

I hug my oldest brother Roman with a grin before I take my position. I haven’t seen him for a month. Now he and I stand on the left side while Mother’s on the right, with Sorata behind her. Her assigned companion has still to arrive. She doesn’t wear a suit or other casual clothes today, it’s like she wants to dress as rich and festive as the other nobles for once: She’s swathed in black tulle as voluminous as a black cloud. I’ve helped her to pin up her yellow hair in an elaborate fashion but our efforts are barely visible beneath her wreath of white lilies with small black markings.

Roman wears white asters and I notice that every small movement of his is as graceful as ever, a generous inheritance from his Iral grandmother. But even formally dressed in a suit with a necktie, he manages to look like a punk, a rocker with electrum jewellery gleaming on his ears, hands and chest, and the tattoos engraved on the brown skin of his neck and left hand. His black hair stands up in every direction like he just walked through a storm and his white shirt hangs over his slacks.

But that’s exactly his charm. Despite his height, he resembles his long-dead father a lot. He and Hagen share his colouring with brown skin and black hair but Roman has Mother’s dark eyes and inherited his father’s handsome, hawkish features as well. And his ability of course, the Eagrie foresight.

Yet all three of us siblings are Mother’s children and that shows. She’s a person who always gets what she wants and we adapted the confidence from her. Roman with his seer ability never makes a wrong move; be it in battle, life or art. I always fight for the win, dismissing the chance of losing to begin with. While Mother has never wanted Hagen to doubt himself for his disability and made him believe in what he can do. Although wandering through people’s dreams in his sleep is generally considered as a freak ability, he’s come to live both in aethereal dreams and in the flesh to his capacity. All the more a reason for Mother to be happy and proud of him today.

When the queen arrives at last, the whole congregation rises and bows or curtseys and I manage to lift my skirt almost exactly to the right level. I raise my eyes just in time to catch Sorata winking at me. Queen Iris walks around the seats like we did, with her ambassador Isabella and the bodyguard Richard Rhambos behind her. Richard serves in my place yet as he’s related to Hagen as well, I wonder if he might’ve wished to attend too.

Iris takes the place next to Mother. She curtseys again, kisses the queen’s hand and reaches for the wreath Lari prepared for the queen – blue-violet iris flowers, an obvious choice for the queen’s name. Yet Iris smirks courtly upon receiving another crown while Mother says something in the Lakelands tongue, eager to show off her knowledge and skills. The queen’s smile widens a bit and I wander if Mother said something funny or if Iris’s just delighted to hear her mother tongue. Naturally, her gown stands out even among the nobility. Dark blue flowery lace is interwoven with silver threads and beads. It’s another dress with a long skirt on the backside but an open front, turned into a kind of catsuit as her legs are dressed in the same rich fabric ending over her sparkling pumps.

The congregation rises. Bride and groom enter together, arm in arm. They walk down the carefully prepared aisle of rich, dark soil. Lari’s gown has no train, nor does she wear a veil or a flower crown herself. Instead she displays fanciful, butterfly-like eye-makeup and flowers woven into her dark brown hair which falls down her back. Following an old tradition, her bridal gown is white, with embroideries in the green and gold of her house along with numerous blossoms placed on it in a detailed pattern. She’s barefoot and in place of a train, buds of daisies, poppies, asters, cornflowers, chamomiles, wild roses and many more arise as she goes down the aisle.

My brother looks dashing besides her - even though she grabs all attention. Larissa’s chosen him a laurel crown with an elaborate black coat, vest and white shirt as usual, velvet and frilly in the same style that his grandfather, Julius Eagrie, prefers. Instead of a big tie or a black cravat with lace in the Eagrie colours, Hagen’s necktie is violet, with an interwoven iridescent pattern in purple and fuchsia. “Hagen needs a more special colour,” Lari told me in the dressing room when my hand glided over the silk tie. “Like you do.” Then she winked at me, who’s not bound no a house colour for my lack of a high house.

With cheers, the guests take their places again as the ceremony begins and the queen herself gives her blessing to the union.

Larissa’s planned and arranged every little part of her wedding, and she’s made it to perfection; without ever losing her nerves or her smile. The glass-ceilinged hall the dinner and dances are to take place in is just another demonstration of rare and impressing botany combined for the utmost effect. Lari tries to personify life and beauty and lets everyone forget in what times we live in, as if not so many of us have lost someone. But still. She was never meant to be a warrior or a queen as that is her cousin Heron’s due, the house lord’s daughter. The girl is here as well and forcing a smile, maybe perturbed that two Silvers marry for love and not for prestige. Yet in ability, Larissa excels nonetheless, and she might be able to grow food for the whole capital on a field the size of the gym with the right fertilizers. She knows all about her vast collection of seeds for crops, flowers and other plants. She showed one of those produces to me mere two days ago, when we partied in anticipation of the wedding in one of the few remaining bars in Archeon.

“Usually, I don’t smoke,” I reminded her.

“But I strongly recommend this one,” Lari answered smirking. I had one draw and it was a sensational experience though I’m uncertain whether I want to repeat it. Drugs unsettle me.

When the dancefloor is opened, I give the first waltz to Sorata, as I promised. We’re swaying among the Silver nobles, most of them relatives or Maven and Iris’s favourite allies. Most of them don’t know what to make of us, or of this festivity as a whole. A Red dances amid them with me, the bastard commoner girl, while my mother, half outsider by association, half trusted advisor to their majesties, doesn’t bat an eye. The groom is a blind man with a freak ability yet the queen herself attends and married him to his bride. Thus, the nobles put on their frozen smiles and clap when appropriate, lest they are deemed second-guessing their rulers.

They might as well boil and drown in their pretends and prejudices. In the end, no one has forgotten they – Maven – have already lost against the Scarlet Guard and the Rift. Even though a part of me is afraid. For my family and the friends I’ve found. What will war and change do to these people, this place? But the change can’t be stopped either way, and possibly, it’ll mean I can dance with Sorata as often and openly as we want, without him fearing the discovery of his ability or any brutal whim of Silvers.

The music stops and we part like all dancing couples. He smiles and asks, “one more?”

“I’d be delighted.”

Roman almost runs into me after four rounds. “Untypical for you,” I chastise him.

“But I wanted to surprise you,” he retorts. “May I dance with you for once, dear sister?”

“Is it that special piece of music?” I ask, raising my eyebrows.

“It is.”

Grinning, I take his hands as Danse Macabre begins to play. We haven’t practised recently, but we danced to this music often enough, as a mean of training and to show off our abilities combined. We forgo the lifting steps yet draw attention anyway. “The ladies are staring at the rare sight of you, Roman,” I say panting, “Still not interested in marriage and children?”

He only laughs in response.

“Nor any new love in sight?” I inquire further.

“Ah no, Cassie. I’m a happy bachelor.” But he sighs. “The time with Reuben still carries fond memories.” He seems slightly melancholic. Maybe because I can see Reuben Osanos, his boyfriend for two years, standing at the edge of the dancefloor. They broke up eight months ago.

Later on, we lounge on a chaise longue when Lari jumps up out of a sudden, pulling me up with her, only to lower into a curtsey. Tired from feasting, my attention isn’t as perfect as usual, but I notice our high guest quickly enough. The king – awfully underdressed in his ragged uniform – is walking along the central aisle of the hall and the queen goes to him in greeting while the rest of wedding congregation displays their reverence.

Half of us must be laughing under their breaths. King Maven, returning to Archeon’s court after months of absence, crashes a wedding as if to make up for the ruination of his own. Iris plays along, her smile showing more amusement than it should from mere politeness.

Lari is having none of it. When she rises from her curtsey, she takes my brother’s arm and together, they go to meet the monarchs, me following behind.

“We are most honoured by your presence at our wedding, Your Majesties,” Hagen says and Lari beams in her characteristic way, so enticing that Maven bows to her and kisses her hand.

My new sister-in-law is too much of a perfectionist to let her wedding get crashed. She’s the queen of this party, ruling over small-talk, aesthetics and good taste. Yet I muse why she doesn’t offer him a left-over laurel crown so he doesn’t stand out so much. In the end, even Mother abstains from joining the little group around the royals, probably avoiding to broach the sinister topics of her double play with both Maven and her Rift-allied Haven relations. She’s even invited cousin Elane, but the Rift’s princess hasn’t appeared.

Larissa guides us back to the corner from before, now including the royal party and thus clearly intending us to sit down in a more formal way. In a circle, Iris and Maven sit next to each other, I’m at Iris’s, Larissa’s at Maven’s other side, with Hagen between us. Iris frowns at the sight of Larissa’s special “cigarettes”, but she remains silent about them, picking one of her fancy little juices while Larissa and Maven talk, soon switching to politics.

“… so, if you don’t mind to postpone your honeymoon, my lady, would you serve Norta with your ability?” Maven asks suggestively. As always. He’d make a good merchant, talented at selling you everything. But he is a king and this takes it to a whole new level. Lari keeps on smiling and chatting but she holds Hagen’s hand tightly.

“I do not want to urge and hurry you, my lady, but we should start quickly with growing more crops, which would be greatly helped by your skills,” he continues.

“I am proud to be recognized by Your Majesty,” Lari replies. “I will help you gladly.”

Iris rolls her eyes at her exaggerated politeness but she’s distracted by a new glass of juice put before her. I’m startled to see Sorata serving her and Maven while he’s already dashing off. It’s one of his games to play pretend with the highest Silvers, now that he’s again forced to hide his importance and our closeness. And consequently, Maven doesn’t even notice the Newblood spy who’s able to steal his ability with a touch. Instead he asks Iris about her juice.

She shrugs. “It’s good, try it.”

“It’s … exotic.”

It delivers the perfect prompt for Lari to describe her efforts again, having grown the juices’ rare fruits especially for the queen – upon my suggestion as the queen never drinks alcohol. “I’m sure you’re the best to produce food for Norta, my lady,” Maven compliments her. “Yet, the season demands …”

“The season does not matter to me, Your Majesty. Earth, water, seeds and some fertilizers are enough.”

“But,” Iris wonders, “how can you reap the whole of your fast-growing crops? My lady?”

“My queen, we have enough field workers with the choke front disbanded,” Maven says.

“We do not even need many field workers, Your Majesties,” Lari informs them. “The plants I think of are easily reaped with machines.”

“Provided by our loyal techies?” inquires Hagen, unsettling Maven, but the king nods after a second. Iris gives him a shove.

“Indeed, my lord,” Maven adds, though still befuddled.

Larissa laughs. “How unfortunate the traitor prince only saw engineering as a hobby,” she says, the mention of Tiberias changing the mood immediately. Lari enjoys to play with the fire of the banished royal’s reputation and laughs again. “But, of course he did, since when has he ever been useful?”

Her mocking afterthought might “prove” her loyalty but the playfulness has left our group. Intentionally, I suspect. While the conversation becomes awkward, Larissa and Hagen kiss and cuddle like the newly-wed bride and groom they are, as if to remind everyone of the reason for this event.

The two monarchs decide to leave soon after. Iris beckons me to follow them as if I’m only here as their bodyguard. I don’t protest, sparing myself for more important battles. So I merely watch Iris and Maven walking out of the hall with grand ceremony, hand in hand like this procedure lies in the blood of both of them, the one thing bonding them together more than everything else.

“Seasons?“ Iris blurts out, back in their office. She stands with her arms crossed and faces the windows.

The king leans back in his chair, as comfortable as possible in a room inlaid with silent stone. He shrugs. “Autumn is approaching. It’s better to have matters done before winter.”

“Neither my soldiers, nor you and I, can be bothered by cold weather,” Iris insists. But whatever her point is supposed to be, it makes Maven tense. He turns his chair and stares at his wife. She stares back but no words fall for a minute.

The king clears his throat. “You don’t need to be worried about warfare and terrible living conditions?” asks he.

Iris bites her lip. Then sighs. Finally, the corners of her mouth twitch. “If you put it like that – no. I … would be worried.”

His jaw drops. He mutters something and gestures, but stops himself before his fist hits his desk. Although I can smell smoke.

The queen glares.

“I am sorry, Iris,” Maven replies. “I apologize, I haven’t thought it would come so far.”

“But it has,” she insists and while I piece together the meaning behind their polite niceties, I don’t want to believe it, even as I bring back to mind what she told me two months ago. “We have to think of the future, of House Calore, of Norta, and - our alliance.”

I don’t want to be here at all. I want to fall into a hole and die.

But Iris remembers my presence. She comes to me, smiling, but it is her queenly face. “You have sworn to protect me, Captain Griffey,” she proclaims. “Now swear to protect the heir as well.” She says it so formally, neutral and regally, as if this is just a usual matter of state, not her own child.

Yet I curtsey once more in my beautiful gown and do as she commands, pushing away my own thoughts.

Maven rises at the same moment as I. “As this was your plan, my queen,” he utters, “I leave it to you to make announcements when you see fit.”

“I am grateful for your trust,” she replies sarcastically when he’s already on his way to the door. Then he stops and looks at me.

“You’re dismissed for the night, Captain. There’re enough sentinels in the palace.”

Obviously, he thinks if one has to leave, it should be me, not him. I curtsey again but walk away slowly, curiousity taking the better of me.

I glimpse Iris approaching her husband and patting his shoulder and chest.” We both know how it is to walk on determined paths,” she reminds him. “We choose them still.”

I hear his answer just before I close the door. “I thought I could change them. The monarchy. Everything. I really did … believe …”

A/N: If you read my other fics, or chapter 4 of this one, you would’ve been warned ^^°

� 2Wc

So you can imagine the whole thing better, here're some fashion porn photos <3

Cassandra: something between those two plus frilly sleeves (and not cut)

Larissa: I have more than 50 dresses for her this is the best though I miss the golden embroidery >_<

Hagen (totally wrong colour ugh):

Charlotte (Cassie's mum): okay but this is 100 % as I imagine it

Iris: too much cleavage I know though I admit I imagined Iris's dress after I saw this one

d @clarafarleybarrow @mareshmallow @lilyharvord @redqueenfandom @inopinion @spookysamos @hannaharies @red-queen-united @ssingerqueen @runexandra @iris-cygnets

#red queen fan fiction #red queen #war storm #red queen fanfiction #maven calore #blood curse #blood curse ch 11 #war storm fan fiction #original character #iris cygnet #cassandra griffey #larissa welle #sorata ives #hagen eagrie #roman eagrie

18 notes · View notes

wheresanne · 6 years ago

Text

The Ultimate Guide to Naju: 50 Places to Visit in Naju in South Jeolla

Where's Naju?

Naju (나주시) is a small populated "city" in South Jeolla Province, South Korea. The capital of South Jeolla was located at Naju until it was moved to Gwangju in 1895. The name Jeolla (전라) actually originates from the first character of Jeonju (전주) and the first character of Naju (나주).

Despite being a relatively small, remote city, Naju offers quite a bit to the dedicated tourist or to the expat who happens to find Naju home.

Cool history: In 1986, the governmental name changed into modified from Geumseong to Naju. In 1995, Naju city became extended to include Naju county.

What's Naju famous for?

If you watch k-dramas or visit Seoul in South Korea, you may see "나주 곰탕" Naju gom-tang soup restaurants or hear about the delicious "나주 배" Naju pears.

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/839428818029410461/

Naju is a city with history and modern culture.

"Its beauty comes from the harmony of history and modern culture within. The spiritual healing offered by Naju comes from this harmony."

Naju has plenty of rice fields and pear farms on the outskirts of the new "Naju Innocity Bitgaram" which is located in the eastern section of the Naju province. As of 2018, there are 12 Korea public service companies and business workers in Bitgaram, the Naju Innocity.

Here are 50 activities, cultural museums, delicious restaurants, cool cafes, and other places you should visit in Naju, South Korea.

https://www.pinterest.co.kr/pin/839428818029410479

Naju Travel (나주 여행)

There are mostly four sections of Naju: north, south, east, west.

1 - Naju Innocity / Bitgaram (빛가람동)

Naju has a new inno-city called Bitgaram (빛가람동) which became an Innovative City and the outlet ceremony for metropolis construction started on November 8, 2007. Former President Roh participated within the beginning activities. As the town received the name of "Innovative City", several Korean public companies of work transferred from Seoul, to the Naju area. Naju's creation changed into 4th began after Jeju, Gimcheon, and Jinju. Upon entering Bitgaram city, you'll immediately see some tall buildings of the companies: KEPCO, Knowledge Information Service Center, Korea Information Security Agency, Radio Research Laboratory, Korea Radio Station Management Agency, Program Deliberation & Mediation Committee.

2 - Lake Park (빛가람 호수공원)

A quite large park with both bicycle and walk paths all around the Innocity lake. Water fountain and light show starts at 8 p.m. on weekdays. And live busking music performances are scheduled on Wednesday evenings. Sometimes you’ll find other planned events, sponsored by KEPCO, KDN, Korea Council of Arts, or other companies, for families or couples to enjoy in Lake Park.

Also a bridge connects for walkers to hike up to the Bitgaram landmark observatory, or have picnics under the trees.

Address: Jeollanam-do, Naju-si, 호수 로 77

3 - Bitgaram Observatory

The Bitgaram Observatory looks like an alien ship! The facilities for the observatory include an exhibition hall, restaurant, Hole Cafe, gallery and parking lots.You can ride the Monorail for 1,000won to the top of the observatory for a view of the Bitgaram city.

https://www.pinterest.co.kr/pin/839428818029410302

4 - Business Hotels

Some of these business hotels have excellent gyms or delicious restaurants! Or behind them, is the main Bitgaram road with a Daiso, Burger King, Hyundai and Kia car dealership, Dunkin' Donuts, Paris Baguette, Tous Les Jours, Lotteria, Gongcha, Twosome Place, Tom n Toms, etc.

5 - Restaurants Street on Sangya 2-gil, Naju-si

This is a great area with a lot of restaurants.

6 - Starbucks or Drop Top cafes on Sangya 2-gil, Naju-si

7 - Go naked in jjimjilbang spa.

There’s a Eco Sejong for a family spa, across from the Starbucks, or a few jjimjibang spas for women-only or for business workers.

8 - VR Rooms

9 - Father's Bagel for a good New-York-style bagel

10 - Arcade/Singing Rooms

11 - PC Rooms

12 - KEPCO botanical garden and lotus flower reservoir pond

Go see the tallest building in Bitgaram and Naju. Even from the two bridges and rural parts of Naju, you can see the KEPCO building.

13 - CGV movie cinema building

There’s a CGV movie theater, arcade room, bows and arrows, lots of Vietnamese restaurants, a dog cafe, Pizza Etang, New York Bread, boutiques, and other places you should visit.

http://bitgaram-sclass1.com/surroundingInfo/page.apt?codeSeq=68

14 - "No Brand" supermarket

15 - Chinese restaurants

16 - More Business Hotels with great buffet restaurants

17 - Virtual Golf Rooms

18 - Olive Young, other beauty stores, NH Bank, Office Depot, a pillow and blankets store

19 - Golf Course on Lake Park

20 - Library

21 - Innocity bus terminal

22 - Bowling Alley

23 - Cute coffee shops in Innocity:

Some of my absolute favorite cafes in Bitgaram city include,

Cafe 115 (54, Hosu-ro, Naju-si)

Father's Bagel

Bucket114 Cafe (Fancy and good macaroons)

감성커피 Gamseong Cafe (16, Sangya 2-gil, Naju-si)

Double U Cafe (72, Ujeong-ro, Naju-si)

5BLOCK Cafe (Delicious bread and desserts) (19-3, Baemet 3-gil, Naju-si)

RUSTIC Cafe (23-20, Domin-gil, Naju-si)

Cafe Innovation (165, Ujeong-ro, Naju-si)

Things to do in Naju, old Naju and history.

Metasequoia-Tree Road (나주 산림자원연구소)

Many visitors and Koreans know about the famous Nami Island Metasequoia Tree Lane; however, there’s actually a similar one here in Naju!! It’s a botanical garden and research institute, so you can see a wide variety of trees, flowers, and other plants. There’s also some benches and large grass area for picnics!

I love this photo and need it http://koreatourinformation.com/blog/2015/05/01/naju-hometown-of-historic-figures/

Address: 산23 Sanje-ri, Sanpo-myeon, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do

Old Nampyeong Station.

Address:

Geumseongsan Mountain

Geumseongsan Mountain is a relatively low mountain with its peak at 450m above sea level; however, it is the tallest mountain in Naju.

Address: Gyeonghyeon-dong, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea

http://www.naju.go.kr/tour/html/sub02/0204.html

Naju Station

Naju Station on the Honam Line is a busy station, servicing 29 KTX and 18 SRT trains every day. The line between Naju and Mokpo Stations is also being expanded to include Muan International Airport from October 31. While the current Naju Station is quite nice, the old Naju Station is worth a visit due to its historical importance; the former station was the starting point for the Gwangju Student Independence Movement.

https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=2599155

Learn the Significance of Old Naju Station - It’s now the Gwangju Student Movement Memorial Hall

At Old Naju Station, you can learn more about the Korean students of Gwangju and Jeonnam resisted the oppression of the Japanese imperialists. It sparked with the incident of the Korean girl being harassed at Naju Station on October 30, 1929 and an anti-Japanese protest was staged on November 3. However, this small movement spread into a nation-wide Anti-Japanese and is also significant to Gwangju’s history too.

https://www.pinterest.co.kr/pin/839428818029410598

Understand History of the Statue of Peace Woman Statue (평화의 소녀상)

The Statue of Peace, also often called Sonyeosang in Korean pronunciation, is a symbol of the victims of sexual slavery, known as comfort women, by the Korean military during Vietnam War and the Japanese imperial military during World War II.

Address: 20 Jukrim-gil, Geumnam-dong, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do

Visit Naju’s best palace site, Geumseonggwan Hall (금성관)

The top attractions of Naju are Geumseonggwan Hall, a guesthouse operated by the Naju Government Office for visiting officials during the Goryeo and Joseon periods, and Geumhakheon House, a reconstruction of the private residence of the Naju Moksa (highest government official in the region).

I recommend starting at Geumseonggwan Hall for a history tour and then enjoying the peaceful five-minute walk to Geumhakheon House. You’ll be able to find the residence when you spot a grand hackberry tree towering over all the other trees. There are also many cherry blossom trees in the area, making it a popular attraction in spring. Unlike Geumseonggwan Hall, guests can actually spend the night at Geumhakheon House. Book a night here to feel like a traveling dignitary from the Joseon dynasty!

Address: 109-5 Gwawon-dong, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do 전라남도 나주 금성관길 8 (우) 58257 Recommended food: Naju gomtang

Eat Gomtang Soup on Gomtang Street (near Geumseonggwan Hall)

Naju is also famous for gomtang (beef bone soup). What makes Naju’s version of gomtang so special is their use of plate and shank cuts of beef for the flavoring of the broth instead of the standard beef bones used in other regions. It has also remained true to its original recipe throughout the years, drawing people back again and again. The area around Geumseonggwan Hall and Geumhakheon House is filled with gomtang restaurants, making it an easy choice when visiting!

Address: Area of Geumgye-dong, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do (전라남도 나주시 금계동)

Then eat gomtang soup at the famous restaurants and/or visit this cafe.

Among them is the ginkgo tree grown on the grounds of the Naju hyanggyo, a Confucian academy. It’s said to have been planted by King Taejo himself. 나주 학생독립운동 기념관Address: 전라남도 나주 죽림길 26 (우) 58260 Yeongsan area: East of the city center is the Yeongsan River (영산강) which flows southward through the city, then west out towards Mokpo.

Ride a traditional Korean boat, a Dotpae (돛배), on the Yeongsan River.

To do this, you need to go out to the Yeongsan-Po District. The boat is located across the street from Skate Street. You get a ticket - free for Naju residents and maybe 3,000won for non-residents - and you get to go on a 10 minute boat ride a good ways up the Yeongsan River. The boat ride offers exceptional views of the Naju countryside, and occasionally, they have musicians on the boat who play traditional "river boat" music. It can be quite a nice time.

Also quickly visit the Yeongsangpo Museum for free admission.

Yeongsanpo Skate Festival (영산포 홍어축제)

Some history myths: The myth says that Arangsa and Abisa fell in love with each other in the vicinity of the Yeongsangang River during Korea’s Three Kingdoms Period (57 B.C.-A.D. 668). In jealousy, young villagers threw Abisa into the river, but she was brought to life in the form of a giant snake. Alas, then both of them fell into the river near the Angam Rock (pictured). This area is known for its rapid currents which have overturned numerous riverboats.

https://www.pinterest.co.kr/pin/839428818029410111

https://www.pinterest.co.kr/pin/839428818029353538/

https://www.pinterest.co.kr/pin/839428818029410202/

See the Yeongsangpo Boat & In-Land Lighthouse

Smell the Skate Fish on Skate Street in Yeongsanpo

Or eat Eel Fish

Visit this cafe Breeze for a view of the Yeongsanpo River.

Across the street of this cafe Breeze, you’ll see an old movie theater and the Yeongsan Church.

Japanese Teahouse & Yeongsang Church & Yeongsan Bus Terminal

Daeungjeon Hall of Dabosa Temple

Address: 주소83, Geumseongsan-gil, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea

http://www.naju.go.kr/tour/html/sub02/0204.html?mode=V&mng_no=802

Naju Image Theme Park (영상테마파크)

This is one of Korea's most interesting and underrated tourist attractions. The name is horribly misleading as are many of Korea's "theme parks.”. This place is actually a movie/TV drama set built as an elaborate Joseon-era castle with rooms you can walk in, traditional clothes you can try on, musical instruments you can play, vendors with traditional cheledon pottery you can buy, etc. -- all of which culminates in a spectacular view of the Naju countryside from atop the castle walls. It's a good 20 minutes outside the city. Tickets cost 5,000w, and if you are a Naju resident, you can get a discount (this applies to foreigners, too, so long as your ARC lists Naju as your official address). Check out their official site for more information: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=495604

This is the Naju Image Theme Park, where the soap operas "Jumong" and "Kingdom of the Winds" were filmed. Located in the southwestern parts of the country, the city of Naju was occupied by the Baekje Kingdom during Korea's Three Kingdoms Period (57 B.C.-A.D. 668). First-time visitors to the theme park can reflect on the nation's history and may have questions about the Goguryeo-style architecture.

The Naju Image Theme Park is one of the most sought-after locations to film historic soap operas, especially those set in Goguryeo (37 B.C.-A.D. 668) and Baekje (18 B.C.-A.D. 660) times. The park is surrounded by some 95 buildings.

This is the Naju Image Theme Park, where the soap operas “Jumong” and “Kingdom of the Winds” were filmed. Located in the southwestern parts of the country, the city of Naju was occupied by the Baekje Kingdom during Korea’s Three Kingdoms Period (57 B.C.-A.D. 668). First-time visitors to the theme park can reflect on the nation’s history and may have questions about the Goguryeo-style architecture.

Address:

The Natural Dyeing Culture Center (한국천연염색박물관)

(나주시천연염색문화재단)

Naju is famous for their natural dyeing, recognized as Important Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 115, and is known for developing silk weaving techniques and discovering a way to create a deep navy color for fabrics. As such, Naju is home to the Natural Dyeing Culture Center. You can easily lose track of time exploring the exhibit hall, materials room, shop, and experience hall here. The experience hall in particular offers many opportunities to make your very own souvenir, ranging from naturally dyed scarves and items of clothing to coloring and woodcraft kits.

Address: 379, Baekho-ro, Dasi-myeon, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do (전라남도 나주시 다시면 백호로 379)

Naju National Museum (국립박물관)

Naju National Museum displays artifacts found near Yeongsangang River region and preserves artifacts excavated from throughout the South Jeolla region.

Address: 747, Gobun-ro, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do

Naju Mary

Naju Pear Museum (나주배박물관)

Naju Pear Museum is a museum that was opened in the year 1992 to study more about the Korean pears including the history of the fruit, process of growing them, sorting them and storing them. Located in Naju, visitors can take a guided tour of this museum. The tour lasts 20 minutes and will help you know more about your favourite breakfast food.Address:

Address: 5838, Yeongsan-ro, Geumcheon-myeon, Naju-si, Jeollanam-do

And of course what's a trip to Naju without going to the Naju Pear Museum? It's free. It's fruity. It's the Pear Museum! Learn more about this place at: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=815382

Abandoned Bowling Alley

Nearby Dongshin University, there is a large bowling alley which has been abandoned since the 1990s. Koreans don't seem to have the same fascination with abandoned buildings as Westerners do, so there aren't any drug addicts or vagrants hiding in the place. It's definitely worth a visit. If you feel so inclined, you can go bowling with ghosts and ghouls; there are plenty of bowling balls, pins, and even bowling shoes available. After you've finished your game, you can head downstairs and sing to your heart's desire at the abandoned norae-bang. If you don't believe in the netherworld, however, you can pilfer through boxes of unused shot glasses and mugs. To get there from Hoban Apartments: walk towards the university, turn right at the street that's in front of the university. Walk about 25 yards, then, you'll see paths that lead you towards the bowling alley on your right.

#1 of 5 Things To Do in Naju-si

Relax at Jungheung Gold Spa & Resort (중흥 골드스파 & 리조트)

A bit further out, there's Naju's water park. According to other websites, it costs about 37,000w to enter the park and additional money to ride the rides and eat. To learn more about this place, check out the following website: Band Adventures

Address:

Bike the Yeongsan River.

One of the best things about Naju and much of Korea is the access to the kilometers and kilometers of bike trails. Theoretically, you can bike all the way around the country from any one of the trails. In Naju, the trails are breathtaking in their beauty, personified by majestic farm lands, cattle yards, and truly sublime views of the River. Every 5 kilometers or so, there is a rest station; some offer maps. If you manage to bike through this area, it's recommended that you try to pass by Neureoji Observatory (느러지전망대), which is a lookout tower, where you can stare out across an oxbow in the River. You can read more about that here: Namu Wiki

Address:

Hike Geum-seong Mountain (금성산).

It's not a particularly tall mountain, but it does offer some stunning views and as with most mountains in Korea, quaint, enlightening Buddhist Temples nestled here and there. What makes this mountain interesting is its history: With its several jutting peaks, three in total, it has the look of a dragon's back, and so, dating back to Korea's shamanistic days, Geum-seong Mountain has been worshiped as a holy place. Also, during the Korean war, a group of North Korean soldiers got stranded up there after MacArthur's famous attack on Incheon; those soldiers set up landmines around the mountain and held out until the bitter end. There's a South Korean military base up there now, making the highest peak inaccessible. However, there is a water park located over the first ridge of the mountain; it's only open in the summer and may look out-of-business, because they drain the pools every day (strange), but it's definitely worth a visit.

Address:

Check out the Naju Culture Center

Located between the Daebang area and City Hall, the Culture Center offers several surprisingly good theater and dance performances, and it also serves as a movie theater on occasion while the new movie theater in Innovation City is being build. The 160 and 196 buses go by here. Check out there website here: http://najuart.naju.go.kr/

Address:

Yearly Festivals in Naju

Naju also hosts several festivals throughout the year.

Naju Pear Blossom Festival (나주 배 꽃 축제) - April - Pear blossoms give cherry blossoms a run for their money in terms of their beauty and soft colors.

Naju Rapeseed Festival (나주 유채 축제) - May - Odd sounding name but a lovely festival with breathtaking tall yellow-grass flowers.

Naju Yeongsanpo Skate Festival (영산포 홍어축제) - May - Celebrates skate fish. Click the link to find out more: Asia English Visit Korea

Naju Reed Festival (억새풀 축제) - September - Celebrates the reeds that grow near the river, which are quite beautiful. Walking around there, you get the feeling you're in a horror movie or something.

Mahan Culture Festival (마한문화축제) - October - Celebrates the traditional culture of the Mahan Kingdom, which ruled before the Three Kingdom period

Dongshin University Festival (동신대학교 축제) - Fall - 3-day festival with live music, games, and food, which is held in the fall.

Address:

동신대학교

나주시외버스터미널

Also read my post about how-to travel from Naju to Gwangju!

How to get from Gwangju to Naju Innocity without a car:

From Gwangju-Songjeong Station, use the 02 bus for 30 minutes to "Lake Park" or use the 160 bus for 30 minutes to Innocity. Or ride on the train for 10 minutes to Naju Station and then take the 700 or 701 bus to the Innocity.

- Naju-Innocity bound buses: 02

How to get from Gwangju to (Old) Naju without a car:

From Gwangju-Songjeong Station, use the 02 bus for 30 minutes, or ride on the train for 10 minutes. - Naju-bound buses: 160, 600, 601, 602, 603, 1160

Or Reasons I'm Happy to Live near Gwangju!

광주가톨릭대학교

1913 Songjeong Station Market

☞ Address: 38, Songjeong-ro 16beon-gil, Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju (광주광역시 광산구 송정로16번길 38)

☞ Directions: Walk approx. 3 min from Gwangju-Songjeong Station, Exit 5

☞ Operating hours: Mon-Thu 11:00-22:00 / Fri-Sun 11:00-23:00 * Closed second and fourth Monday of each month

☞ Inquiries: +82-62-942-1914 (Korean only)

☞ Website: 1913songjungmarket.modoo.at (Korean only)

Yangnim History & Culture Village

☞ Address: 201-64, Yangnim-dong, Nam-gu, Gwangju (광주광역시 남구 양림동 201-64)

☞ Directions: Walk approx. 15 min from Namgwangju Station (Gwangju Subway Line 1), Exit 3

☞ Operating hours: Open 24 hours (Hours vary by shop)

☞ Inquiries: +82-62-607-4502 (Korean only)

☞ Website: visityangnim.kr (Korean only)

Muan International Airport

Mokpo Station

Mokpo

Gatbawi Rock and the coastal walkway to reach it are a must when visiting Mokpo. Gatbawi Rock, Natural Monument No. 500, is said to look like two men wearing gat (traditional Korean hat). In the past, people had to ride a boat if they wanted to see the rocks. However, with the installation of a coastal footpath, visitors can easily walk to the rocks over the sea, enjoying the breeze on their way.

Gatbawi Culture Town is within walking distance, perfect for travelers who enjoy getting to know the local culture and arts. The tourism complex is comprised of the National Maritime Museum, Mokpo Culture & Arts Center, Mokpo Natural History Museum, Local Culture Hall, and Namnong Memorial Hall.

Or take a Professional Naju Tour

https://www.narabus.co.kr/jw_2ds/?menu_id=47:49

Leave a comment if you have any other Naju travel recommendations, corrections, or questions of life in Naju, South Jeolla province, or South Korea. 감사합니다!

Disclaimer: All text, photos, and videos are my own and property of Where's Anne, unless stated otherwise.

Disclaimer: All information comes from my experience of Naju tours, Naju travel information pamphlets, and the sources below:

Korea.net - News Focus http://www.korea.net/NewsFocus/Travel/view?articleId=127237

WikiTravel https://wikitravel.org/en/Naju

KoreaTourInformation Blog http://koreatourinformation.com/blog/2015/05/01/naju-hometown-of-historic-figures/

#NAJU #나주 #Naju Innocity Bitgaram South Korea #South Korea #EPIK #English Program in Korea #Jeollanamdo #lifeinkorea #living in Korea #JLP Program #blog post #blog #travel blogger

0 notes

geimei · 8 years ago

Note

What criteria makes Geiko or a Maiko famous?

Well, first of there is beauty. This is by far not the only criteria and I wouldn’t even say it’s the most important, but it definitely helps a lot.

Especially Maiko who have just started out often rely on their beauty and overall cuteness, because they still make a lot of mistakes and don’t have the experience and artistic repertoire their older Geiko-sisters have. Beauty also helps you get your picture taken a lot, which contributes to your face spreading, but how many pictures of a Maiko or Geiko are taken isn’t neccessarily an indicator of fame. Take Geiko Dan-yuu for example. There rarely are any pictures of her and most tourists don’t even recognize her as a Geiko, because she doesn't wear the white oshiroi and she was in the third bracket of the highest earners of 2016 and has been on the list for years in a row!

A Maiko who has the typical kind of “Maiko-beauty” is Ichiyuu (Katsumi Okiya) of Pontocho. She is short, petite, cute and very much looks like a real life hina doll. Geiko Kikuno (Hanafusa Okiya) of Miyagawacho is a good example for the typical “Geiko-bauty”. She looks elegant and feminine, yet mature and strong.

Basically, the older the Maiko or Geiko gets, the less important beauty is. Senior Maiko wear less flamboyant kimono than junior Maiko, Geiko wear much more subdued kimono and hair ornaments than Maiko and at some point, they are expected to stop wearing the white makeup and wig altogether and switch to wearing mainly ordinary houmongi, iromuji and tomesode (for special occassions).

The older and experienced a Geiko gets, the more she is supposed to focus on and solely rely on her artistic talents. Simply being beautiful and not training hard is not going to work if you want a long and stable career or true fame.

And here we are at the second point: Hard work and dedication. The most famous or even outright legendary Maiko and Geiko are almost always the best or belong to the best of their district or even city. Usually, they are dancers, but jikata Geiko can also earn fame if they are very skilled. They train and study very hard and accept as many engagements as possible. You need to have dedication to the job, lifestyle and arts if you want to make it. If you’re not serious about training, you’re very likely to fail. Geiko Satsuki is a great example. She is not only a great dancer, but also one of the best fue-players of Kyoto, and goes to as many engagements as humanly possible.

Mineko Iwasaki even talks about this in her autobiography. She said that her okaasan told her that her older sister Yaechiyo (her real name was Yaeko) was very beautiful, talented and promising, but very lazy and undisciplined and never paid attention during her lessons (amongst other problems), so her career never really blossomed.

“But there was a problem. It soon became evident that Yaeko wasn’t serious about her career. Frankly, it is possible for a Maiko, especially one as stunning as Yaeko, to glide for a while on her magnificent costumes and childlike charisma, but her career can’t blossom unless she capitalizes on her talent. Yaeko was lazy and undisciplined. She got bored easily and didn’t see things through. She hated lessons and barely paid attention during rehearsals. Her dancing wasn’t getting any better. Auntie Oima told me it was making her very nervous.”

But training in the arts isn’t the only training you have to do, you also have to train your conversation-skills to become an enjoyable and interesting host and to be able to easily accommodate all different kinds of people. No one expects a fifteen-year old Maiko to be a very extroverted and lively host, so she has to gradually learn from her older sisters. The experience of senior Geiko is often very important for this!

Thirdly, talent can be a good asset. Just as with beauty, just being talented won’t be enough for fame, but it is a good help if your a naturally gifted musician or dancer (or both). It also often makes starting out easier, as a lot of Shikomi and Maiko quit because they feel like they aren’t progressing and are getting to much harsh criticism from their teachers and elders. If you’re naturally gifted, you’re probably going to progress faster, especially at the start, and have a slightly easier time setting foot in the karyukai.

Also, being a naturally extroverted person is a great help especially for ozashiki. Maiko and young Geiko are almost never fully alone and even senior Geiko who live in their own space are with other people most of the time. Also, having to deal with different people all the time and be entertaining to them is hard and is easier if you‘re naturally outgoing and jokey. If you’re a very interested and/or shy person, you’ll have a harder time accommodating to the job.

Also, having taken lessons in traditional Japanese arts can be a great help, too, as it gives you an advantage over your peers. Retired Maiko Mamefuji and Geiko Toshimana had both taken lessons in traditional Japanese dance for years prior to becoming Maiko, and it certainly helped them. Mamefuji got to wear a white collar after a little over a year already because she was progressing so fastly and Toshimana became a Geiko after just 3 years and two months! However, it’s not only talent and having already taken lessons in dancing that made them so good and famous, it really is mainly hard work. Also, there are plenty of Maiko and Geiko who have never ad any lessons in Japanese arts before entering the karyukai who became very famous regardless of that (as far as I know, Satsuki didn’t have any, too)!

Famous Maiko and Geiko also often have very unique and bright personalities that enchant people very easily and make people remember them. So, there really are a lot of reasons intersecting.

#ask #karyukai #geisha #maiko #geiko #geigi

43 notes · View notes

thepullout · 8 years ago

Text

Thoughts on Klaroline

Hey, so I would like to take some time and appreciate my number one OTP that is Klaus and Caroline.

I want to talk you all through each of their beautiful moments. Throughout eight seasons of TVD and a couple of the Originals episodes.

They contributed spectacularly to the popular notion of shipping in the Vampire Diaries. I’d like to think of them as one of the original epic ships in this vampire world. They certainly were a part of the greatest season of the Vampire Diaries, season 3. Klaroline has rocked the world in more ways than one and has been the most wanted ship since forever. People have been waiting, however long it takes because this ship is beyond eternal. It’s true. There’s no surprise that Caroline was the last vampire standing at the end of TVD. That exceedingly contradicts what Damon had said back in season 2 on Caroline’s first transformation. He said, “Caroline of all people will not make it as a vampire.” Looks like she outlived you, Damon, thus your words must taste as nasty as your character. Sorry, Damon fans, but I’m very much on the side of Caroline and truly believe he raped her. Anyway, Klaus and Caroline are known to do Delena better than Delena. Sorry, not sorry. Let me prove this…

3x09: This is a moment that most people might not take into account, but I believe there is something to be dissected from this scene. Let me begin with quoting Klaus: “there’s Bonnie, there’s Elena and Matt…” Okay, so this is just Klaus pointing out all the people Tyler knew at the party, very simply by pointing them out and saying their name. But when it came to pointing out Caroline, Klaus had to give Tyler more details, for example, he says, “...and there’s your pretty little girlfriend, Caroline.” Now, Klaus might have added more information for Caroline because she was special to Tyler, but the only way he could single her out was by describing her as “pretty.” He could have just said “girlfriend,” that is certainly a simple way to single Caroline out from the rest of Tyler’s friends. But Klaus could not resist and called her pretty; this emphasises the fact that Klaus is very aware of Caroline’s beauty and he says it in a way to identify her. That Caroline and pretty is a package deal, beauty is a part of her identity. Or I could be overthinking the entire thing.

3x05: This episode contained Klaus and Caroline’s very first meeting. Now it may not have been something special, but there is something quite symbolic about them meeting in a chemistry classroom. Given that they were to share the most chemistry of any other characters on the show, it only made sense. Also, Klaus instantly called her “love” when he first spoke to her. Now, I understand that this is a common term of endearment and it’s the way Klaus shows his ruthless self, by being his scary sweet self, but there’s something very endearing about him calling her love upon their first communication. Rebekah could have killed Caroline to prove to everyone how you should not fuck with the Originals family, yet she did not kill her. Granted, she had no reason to, but I think there could be something there between Rebekah and Caroline also. Great potential, but lost to a spin-off series.

3x11: Now there is a lot one can deduce from this episode. Klaus had ordered his sire, Tyler to bite his girlfriend, namely Caroline. Klaus was not properly attached to her at that point. He wanted to prove himself to Stefan, show him how Stefan should NOT push him otherwise those around him would end up getting hurt. Caroline was just collateral, as said by Klaus himself. Thus, when it came to Caroline being bitten by a nasty werewolf bite and the only cure known was Klaus’ blood, it left Tyler with no other option but to beg Klaus to help her. Now Klaus had just about had enough of Stefan resisting him, what with ordering Klaus to remove his hybrids from town. Not long before Tyler asked Klaus for help, Stefan was calling the shots, threatening to drive Elena over wickery bridge. Thus, Klaus had every reason to let Caroline die, to show Stefan who was in charge here. Yet, he came to her door and after being invited in by the sheriff, made his way to Caroline’s bedroom. And from then on, something epic blossomed. From their first proper interaction, iconic quotes were spewed from Klaus as easily as he spews venom. Such human consideration, on Klaus’ part, was never before seen and we were seeing it for the first time ever. He told Caroline that she could choose to die, but advised against it. Klaus saw life in her even in death. He wanted her to live, told her she could “have a thousand more birthdays” and that all she had to do was ask. Caroline dying was a waste of a great life in his opinion, because “there is a whole world out there waiting” for her. And he so badly wanted to show her. Caroline expressed that she did not want to die, thus at her request, he saved her. It would have been better for his ruthlessness if he let her die, thus he can show Stefan who’s in charge here, yet he chose to save her because he believed her life to have real potential. Because she deserved the world.

3x14: A magical evening, indeed. Klaus invites Caroline to a ball where the Mikaelsons were to host as a means of coming together as a family. This is the episode where we begin to see Klaus’ infatuation with Caroline. He sends her a dress, personally (though he disappears before she can see him at the door). I think him delivering her the dress is not talked about enough, for he could have sent one of his hybrid minions, but he chose to give it to her himself, that shows dedication and worth. She is valuable to him and there is enough value in her for Klaus’ limited time. Then, it comes to the time of the ball, and when he first sees her, that is a picture! He is a host to this ball, he should be circling around the room, greeting everyone, yet he stops to stare at Caroline Forbes, who has taken him completely aback by her beauty. He greets her a good evening, to which she replies with needing a drink. His eyes follow her as she walks away. This monster found something beautiful and he was not afraid to show his affection as evidently shown in the lovely waltz he was to have with her. I don’t particularly feel Klaus was at all hated by most fans of TVD, I think everyone loved him as the villain and to see him develop some feelings, really captured the attention of fangirls across the globe. The waltz scene was completely stolen by Klaroline, Klaus expressing how “ravishing” Caroline looked in the dress he gave her and was delighted to see her wearing the bracelet he gave her too. I don’t think Klaus has ever stared so ardently at anyone as he did with Caroline that night. He later noticed his date was missing from his arm. He followed her outside to where she stood next to a horse. It was then that he declared, “I fancy you, you’re beautiful, you’re strong, you’re full of light. I enjoy you.” This stunned Caroline as it stunned the audience. We began to see some light in Klaus. When Klaus showed Caroline his paintings, I think that was crucial. His art is personal to him, his passion for art shared with his passion for Caroline. He was trying to impress her. And it worked. Klaus beginning that eternal notion with this ship by offering to take Caroline to “Rome, Paris, Tokyo” in which both laughed at. It was at this point Caroline turned on him, Caroline clearly not over Tyler, and Klaus was clearly affected by her resentment. His face, when she left, seemed regretful, like he had something to say to her, but was left with no opportunity to do so. Later on the evening, Klaus had left her another gift. But it was much more valuable than a diamond bracelet or an elegant gown, it was a picture of her in that evening, next to a horse. Caroline had declared she liked horses to Klaus, and he obviously found this interesting. So he captured it in a drawing. There’s something very intimate about him giving her a drawing and it’s very dedicating considering he took the time to draw her. I’ve never seen Caroline’s passion for horses elsewhere in the show, but this is something only Klaus and Caroline share. I feel like only Klaus knows she loves horses and that is information for only Klaus to revel in and use to his advantage. It shows he listened to Caroline, he knows what she wants, and above all, he appreciated her honesty. Many would have expected Klaus to lash out on her rejection, but instead thanked her for being real with him. And from the look on Caroline’s face upon receiving this gift, it was a true moment where she saw a certain light in Klaus. She seemed shocked by his kindness, and I think that resonated deep within her by the look she gave. My OTP sails itself.

3x15: This scene happens to be one of my most favourite scenes and I have no idea why because Caroline’s role here was to distract Klaus while the others tried to kill his family. But it’s so easy to forget that, because this moment between them was quite flirtatious, you’re just itching for something to happen beyond penetrating stares and making each other smile. Caroline walks in, strutting towards him, head held high like she owned beauty. Kol recognised her at first, pointed her out to Klaus and declared her to be a “tasty little thing.” Klaus, protective over Caroline, vowed to rip his liver out if he continued to talk. He stopped Caroline in her tracks and offered her to join him and his brother for a drink. At which point, Caroline claimed she’d rather die of thirst but gave thanks to his request. She walked away from him, and this rejection made him smile and Klaus asked Kol, “isn’t she stunning?” I think this really attracted a lot of people to this ship because of how her not wanting him just made him want her more. The love-hate relationship began to blossom, and that one’s a classic, Darcy-Elizabeth type ship, good shit, never tired of that kind of ship. Klaus, accepting her challenge, stalked after her with a hungry look on his face. He almost got hit by a car chasing after her, in which Caroline told him to take the hint and back off. Yet, her aim was to keep him close, thus she knew the extent of his infatuation with her because he was not likely to give up so easily. There’s something quite sweet about him asking Caroline to get to know him. Because previously, Caroline told Klaus, “You don’t connect with people because you don’t even try to understand them.” And now Klaus is asking Caroline to get to know him. Here, he is heeding her words by trying to connect with her. Yet, when Caroline asked what he wanted to talk about, he immediately said he wanted to talk about her. Her hopes, dreams and everything she wanted in life. He wanted to know so he could give it to her. And Caroline said she was too smart to be seduced by him and Klaus admitted that’s why he liked her (later Caroline tells Rebekah that Klaus sees a challenge in her). The challenge in her is what draws him in. Later on, Klaus realised Caroline was only talking to him to steer him away from the commotion at the grill regarding his brother, Kol. He seemed angry by her betrayal, and yet still did not hurt her.

In the end, he burned the portraits he drew of her and watched them be consumed by the flames. Burning away his feelings for her (similar to Caroline shredding the pic of the drawing Klaus gave her in season 5).

Judging by the look on her face, this drawing gave her a feeling that hooked itself right among the tendrils of her heart.

3x20: Klaus seems to be painting over yet another portrait of Caroline. The painting is dominated with the shade of a lemon, and there is only one woman Klaus would be painting with such lemon-coloured hair. There is a slight glimpse of the painting where it shows Caroline’s fringe or bangs meet with her temple. Klaus tarnishing this painting with a slab of black all over it simply makes him hide his feelings away in the darkness. It could also emphasise him pushing out the light that Caroline planted within him and so he tries to cover it with darkness. Yet, still, he couldn’t cover it all in black because light truly comes out in darkness. In addition to this, it could be Klaus trying to bring out the darkness is Caroline, by covering black paint all over her, Klaus wants to free the darkness routed in Caroline, thus making it easier for her to accept him and all of his dark flaws. But given the complexity of which Klaus’ character is based, it is more likely that he is using the black paint to cover that glimpse of light Caroline brought out of him. Hence he tries to convince himself that Caroline “means nothing to” him when Esther/Rebekah tries using Caroline’s presence at the dance as a way of getting him to go. Thus, when he actually does turn up, it proves no matter how much he tried to hide away his feelings, light will conquer darkness regardless.

3x20: This was an important chapter in the Klaroline story. Klaus was all ready to leave Mystic Falls, but Esther, his mother disguised as Rebekah (like this was a Shakespeare play or some shit) convinced Klaus to stay a little longer. But how? By asking him to come to the decade dance, but why would Klaus be interested in a high school dance? Because “Caroline will be there.” Esther knew how to persuade Klaus, persuade him with his desires. And thus it worked. He turned up at the decade dance to see Caroline dancing with her boyfriend, Tyler. That did not stop him from getting a dance with her. During their dance, Klaus declared how much Caroline would have enjoyed the 1920s. He told her he’d be leaving town and that caught Caroline’s attention. He even said he would have invited her to come with him but at that point, she was too busy plotting against him to be ready to join him. Klaus told her to mark his words that “a small town boy, a small town life, it won’t be enough for you.” (She did mark his words, later at Tyler’s death, but she phrased it differently). Klaus believed Caroline needs something beyond the town of Mystic Falls. She should be seeing the world with him because he was hoping that one day, she’d show up at his door and “let me show you what the world has to offer.” Because from the very beginning, he saw Caroline as a beautiful vampire whose heart was too grand for the small borders of boring, Mystic Falls. Klaus left the dance quite aggravated, clearly hurt by caroline’s decision to choose Tyler over him, convincing Rebekah (on the phone) that he only came to the dance because she begged her to, truly hiding the fact it was Caroline that brought him to the school.

3x20: I believe Stefan said Caroline’s name and it brought Klaus to reason.

3x21: It was as if Damon had a death wish when he brought up Caroline’s name and mentioned her constant rejection of Klaus. It almost seemed as if Klaus was preparing himself to shatter Damon’s existence right there. And Stefan saying “this isn’t really helping” just makes one realise how much of a second choice Caroline was to everyone but Klaus. It is not helping to save Elena. They noticed when Elena was missing, but where was Caroline? They only found out about Caroline when Alaric phoned them. Hence, Stefan and Caroline was always the shittest ship from the off, only their friendship was epic.

3x21: Here is where we realise that Klaus’ feelings for Caroline was completely steadfast. He was on a mission to protect Elena for her blood, but not before making certain that Caroline was safe first. As for Stefan Salvatore, so-called ‘love of Caroline’s life’ was not concerned for her safety but Elena’s first. In contrast, Klaus went straight for Caroline before Elena. Proving that Caroline means more to him than his hybrids. This is actually proven constantly throughout season 4. And also proving that Elena meant more to Stefan than Caroline did. Caroline relaxing at Klaus’ touch and voice creates a shift in Caroline’s perspective of Klaus. Perhaps she may reject him, but this is where the audience see that this rejection of Klaus is just a veil for her feelings for him. I do not believe Caroline had feelings for him here, but her relaxing in his arms made one giant baby-step forward in their relationship as she now accepted his help and appreciated him for it by thanking him. “It’s okay. It’s me. You’re safe.” Caroline was so quick to believe this and she would have been right to, Klaus only had intention to protect her which is rare in his case.

TO BE CONTINUED

#klaroline klaus x caroline the vampire diaries the originals

24 notes · View notes

northernjulian · 8 years ago

Text

"Lucidity Roses"

LUCIDITY ROSES ルシディ・ローゼズ

Dedicated to:

This poem, project, and visual representation of mental growth & beauty is dedicated to someone I miss dearly and think about everyday. My best friend Jaedin A. She helped me get through everything. From my first heartbreak, to my first day of suicide watch in the hospital. She was there. From crying over being abused in a relationship to crying over being locked in a hospital room. She was there. As I write this dedication with tears falling down my face like that day let it be known that I would not be here today. Mentally, and physically if it weren’t for this person. It’s nothing simple like I got an injury and she stopped the bleeding therefore she “saved my life” shit. It’s more like I couldn’t find my own injury but she stopped it from hurting by just being there with me. No matter the situation. Whether it was when I was 1,500+ miles away or just inches away she helped me push through everything that would’ve broken me. Thank you so much for existing in my era. Xox

This piece is heavily inspired by Jenny Holzers ‘Truisms’ poem. Her diverse yet obvious stanzas created beauty by the things we see and hear everyday. Basic knowledge formed together to create a intricate puzzle like piece that allows the mind to gain an insightful view. Thank you Jenny. Alongside being dedicated to my best friend Jaedin it is dedicated to those who did me wrong. Sorry to kill your vibes but no one can bring me down no matter how long they try. With all love and no hate <3 -Julian

WARNING

This is art. This is real. This is raw. I speak my mind and express everything I see and understand. This ain’t some politics-free Facebook post. Not wanting to argument with family members shit. I’ve been blocked by family members for the things I’ve said. My aunt blocked me after posting pro-black lives matter messages on my Facebook. Apparently not wanting to see my half blood brother on the news is too offensive. Wanting justice for innocent people was “too much”. Putting bad cops in the system they avoid was “too excessive”. If you can’t respect my existence or my families and friends then fuck you. This country has been hypocritical since the day it was founded, but overtime new laws and such have been put into the system yet they still treat us like the cameras ain’t recording, like the wounds ain’t showing, like the pain ain’t growing. So realize that this piece isn’t some school assembly script. This is raw and uncut like Trumps Twitter minus the fact that I’m not a damn idiot. Also while reading this piece you have to be in touch with the other side. By that I mean you have to be relaxed and at peace. Plug in headphones, white noise machine, open the window, do what you gotta do to be ready to see instead of just read. It’s like a deep song with curse words in it. You can’t listen for the words, you have to listen for the meaning. If Van Gogh painted Starry Night in an art class no one would fully appreciate it for the way it was meant to be. Art is three dimensional and up. It can be seen from many sides. Although all of them can be justified, when the artist explains what his two dimensional view of the piece is you gotta just sit back in amazement. The whole time I was writing this I had that mindset. This my canvas mindset. Knowing that each stroke on the white surface has to be better than the last. So here is my piece. My canvas. I hope you enjoy and understand.

Here is “Lucidity Roses”

— america is the biggest terrorist threat not isis all lives matter movement is a fictional movement anatomy is important for love astrology isn’t a science arian advantages are my disadvantages america escaped tyrannical governments only to become one abortion isn’t murder amendments have been broken atheists are people not afraid of death aberrant people are the future able bodied people are the most lazy abolish our current government abrasive people are common absolutism is always a bad idea abstemious people are annoying absorption of countries kills cultures acquaintance is a rude way of saying relationship adeptness is underrated altruism is key for humanity apathy controls our motivations astronomy is observable and beautiful amassing is dangerous anonymity people keep the truth alive aflame is the best way to describe America right now aptitude lovers are real aridity is rising

beautiful mornings happen everyday borders don’t stop shit branding runs capitalism blue lives matter is equal to all lives matters blue people don’t exist bernie should’ve won bravery comes in many forms bruce becoming caitlin was important for this generation baby boomers blame everything on anyone younger bombs are never precise boys don’t cry, men do tho bitches aren’t women bad bitch isn’t a compliment babies show us life in it’s pure form baptism doesn’t save every child of god baptism didn’t keep me holy bottles ease the pain boredom is a first world problem bacteria is everywhere germaphobes being called something besides your name is great blonde was album of the year black lives matter buying expensive things have repercussions baffling is trumps best and only skill burning the flag doesn’t help anything basketball is the best sport

crying in the rain feels good creativity is the key to a new world conspiracy theories aren’t reality cherry blossoms are natures physical form of love condolences are appreciated cancer can be stopped censorship stops art ceasefires never truly cease fire cultures are not to be mocked colors all have meaning codes control our superficial social media currently waiting for closure classical mythologies were once religions civilizations never disappear fully cobain was murdered ceasar once ruled the world callisto needs to be explored carbon dioxide emissions are real cherokee are the toughest natives christmas is definitely the most wonderful time chickenpox in america wasn’t an accident cold war was the scariest war columbus didn’t find shit captain avery was a genius camo clothes are never out of fashion crucifixion is over the top

dark nights only make brighter days death penalty is overpriced depression is real denying science and facts gave us trump don’t argue with science devil dances to inner city anthems death lurking in my thoughts lately da vinci was the closest thing to perfection drake runs our generation dogs are impossible to hate divinity is possible in our form diamonds are perfection doomsayers don’t enjoy their life dormant volcanoes are relatable dancing is art dinosaurs exist despite being held back we succeeded desperate people are the most sick different place this planet is nowadays dying is overrated dust shows authenticity dyed my hair for this rebirth defense is a form of offense dreams mean something doing thangs for myself deities exist in us

“every night fucks everyday up” emptiness is a curse everyone is beautiful in their own way exercise is a reliable stress reliever eagles are sacred earth deserves better easter island disappeared electromagnetism control our sense of direction extinct species show how precious life is endorphins are off in my mind epicenter disasters happen in our minds too egyptians had the smarts of unearthly creatures einstein got sad over things he didn’t understand too errors in our ways are to be fixed not ignored effective ways to love vary on the person elsewhere exist on our minds equality is bullshitted in our world eventually everything falls endings are emotionally exhausting efforts mean everything egos are killed by assholes education isn’t always important for a better world eternal life happens when you love life ethnic cleansing still happens today ethics are not negotiable eyes perceive more than the physical

fuck trump by the way fires burn inside flowers are unreal football is a life damaging sport “faults break into pieces” freezing points are breaking points futura is a great font fonts are key pieces for expression focusing isn’t something gained through pills fallacies run our political system futuristic ideas were once sci-fi ideas finding love is very important fire was once considered magic freedom isn’t real in america fresh fruits are being created as if they were artificial for the last time the earth isn’t flat fascism exist in our america fuel exist in many forms feminism is needed for this generation fake love is true evil false prophets are average humans fables are more than just cute fake news doesn’t exist only inaccurate news faithfulness isn’t difficult when you aren’t an asshole fanatics are just passionate, not crazy feedback is appreciated

guys can be pretty too generalization is the key to all problems global warming is real great barrier reef is almost gone gothic art is the realist art gambling is the currency form of lust geniuses exist in many fields generosity can go a long way geometry is the simplest form of math ghost exist giggles are always nice glaciers are separating glaring is rude girls glisten glitter beauty is magical goddesses are women goals should always be pursued go all out with anything you get some time for yourself gain respect towards those who hurt from things you can’t see great wall didn’t stop the mongols good people exist gasoline isn’t worth killing people over goodnight messages mean a lot good morning messages mean more gestures mean more than words

hells exist beyond our minds health care should always be free heavens exist in our minds hesitation kills motivation highly favorable people were once underrated homophobia isn’t real, being an asshole is homosexuality is just as natural as heterosexuality hogs represent rich people houses aren’t homes unless they’re made into one home is where the love is highlights of life are everything without a price high beams on a dark road how do some people live with themselves? hidden in plain sight things are extraordinary hello starts every conversation height is superficial hierarchy only worked for the pharaohs hire the unfavored heels shouldn’t be a beauty standard heavens gate is no different from christianity heavens gate is a religion hashtag save our girls happiness has me believing i made heaven harassment is cruel to humanity hardly anything is real anymore help is never too far away

i feel like pablo making my own art i’m just human isis doesn’t represent islam imperialism is the reason rome fell imperialism is the reason we shall fall immigrants made america i’m sad as shit when i’m alone i can also be happy as shit when i’m alone i see race i just don’t care about it internet is overrated and superficial inferior things are not always the problem invasion of foreign countries is never reasonable ice cream is good for the soul ignorance isn’t a bliss illogical facts are “alternative facts” illumination of the mind is inspiring imagination is the only drug we need islam has no relation to terrorism impossible is only a word infuriating people lead to a dumber generation infallible beliefs are close minded inhabiting foreign lands ruined cultures informing is not insulting innovation is suppressed in our world instincts are always right intelligence is uncommon

jim jones was the furthest thing from the messiah jesus was brown jean-michel basquait was our van gogh just kidding isn’t an excuse for your assholeness jealousy ruins more relationships than actual issues jewels aren’t worth the killing judges have sympathy journalists can be bias joy is a great feeling justice is failing in america judging others is natural jungles need protection jades are the perfect shade of green jewelry is a classism statement journey around the world if you can jump into new things don’t be scared jokes keep the sadness at bay jumble things are sometimes more beautiful than neat things jaunts are good for you jigsaws relate to our lives justifying racism is impossible judaism is the most neglected religion join the cause jackson was killed by a doctor jerichos’ horn is heard all around world just wondering if i’ll make it in life

keep thinking positive things and they will happen killing for peace is a hypocritical phenomenon kings never end happily ever after kind people are the most beautiful keep your family close knowing isn’t always understanding kkk is a terrorist organization kids bring the family together kanye is a smart man keep yourself your number one priority kissing is just as addictive as drugs kahlo is the best artist ever karma will get you kaitlin lives forever keep the bullshit away kaleidoscopes sparked my creativity kd betrayed his team keep it real keep the faith kepler telescope watches the heavens kepler-452b is our last resort kgb tactics are still in use kick back and get dreamin killing the innocent happens too often killing by accident happens too kidnapping is the worst crime against humanity

loving and sex are two different things legends never live life is a clusterfuck love doesn’t have a gender loneliness craves company lying is an insult to ones morality les brown motivates me lucidity roses is my canvas lucidity roses is life lust for life losing is better than not trying living shouldn’t be bordered by rules lying is an insult to yourself leaving incompetent people isn’t wrong or bad loving those who others don’t is perfect let go every once and awhile laws shouldn’t be bribed lawyers shouldn’t defend sick people lurking gets us hurt lies formed history last night stories are the best lately i’ve been feeling sad lyrics always have deeper meanings last doesn’t always mean something bad lines divide us like paper layoffs are necessary for a new world

majorities blame their problems on minorities mind over matter meditation is a mental workout mental injuries are worse than physical ones make america united again make your dreams a reality men don’t understand motherhood motherhood is a connection like no other “my eyes had a gleam once” my intentions are always good, my actions aren’t always tho meddling in others relationships is disrespectful mexico is a beautiful country manipulated by our politicians managing friendships is tiring morgues show us life after death minerals are running low mindsets vary on time sets marrying just to cheat is unacceptable and wrong mothers are responsible for our nurture vs nature thinking missing people who hurt you is ass-backwards “might've” has no meaning in the present masculinization insults the free spirits makaveli escaped to cuba magna carta is the way of the people mask show more than the person behind it medications should be free mcdonalds runs america

nothing happens for a reason nights with the person you love is better than anything nothing is as intimate as love never have i or will i say “president trump” narcissism got me through my depression nihilism is the truest religion ‘no more parties in la’ nobody pray for me! no means no never think about the past names always deserve a deeper meaning narrow minded people are ruining our country nikes is perfect natural beauty is the perfect form of art news stations are almost always biased nirvana is close by.. nagging gets you nowhere nowadays people aren’t living in the now newcomers deserve respect newcomers deserve recognition nazism is still active in america north is the main direction never love someone you wouldn’t wanna wake up with narcotics control the banks nasa deserves better never judge something you don’t understand

our system is corroded ousting exposes jealousy outfits describe our personalities overnight love is the best ocean needs protection oceans display vibes omitting happiness is brighter than any rays omega is more dominant than alpha order is tyrannical orgasms vary oracles saw illusions odd problems can become the most dangerous ones mental state is a number one priority oak is the most refreshing wood obligate yourself to everything you love oblivion exist only if you open the portal to it oblivious people are the loudest only illegal humans are those who manipulate the public our greatest internal struggle is wanting what we give old white people should have no say on racial issues obliterating countries doesn’t solve problems obnoxious people are common occasional personal days are necessary off days are the worst days offer yourself to the ones you love old times are gone, forget them

past civilizations were more advanced than current ones peoples temple was a suicide group political corruption runs our system police gotta stop killing us pro-black isn’t anti-white philosophies vary on mindsets philosophers were once seen as irrelevant picassos’ rose period is my life season political parties are for small minded people politics separated my family permafrost love is gonna be a visual perfect people only exist when you become in love with someone pesticides are just as bad for humans than bugs push through the tough shit pulling someone closer is a form of intimacy purple is a sexual color purest forms of intimacy are decided by lovers please love someone before you leave this planet peaceful protest are always manipulated by fox news party whenever you can for however long you can pretty isn’t a girl only word panama was split for financial reasons peaks are the top of our lives pastor keeps the followers with hope paparazzi got no respect please don’t stop living

quit slut shaming sexually active people quit calling every female a bitch quality over quantity all the time questions without answers are possible quiet people are a blessing quotes were unappreciated at their time qualm thoughts are stressful quantum mechanics are the future qualified people can still be stupid queens don’t need kings quickly doing things is sloppy quicksand is the physical metaphor of depression quilts are comfortable canvases quixotic love is the best love quizzing us on things we don’t know is irrational quotation marks aren’t needed for the words you say quran isn’t evil quran is equal to the beautiful quarantining sad people is cruel quarantined orcas need to be freed #fuckseaworld quite a few good things in life we don’t appreciate quitting is never the answer quit fucking with people who don’t care for you queer isn’t an insult question everything you don’t understand quasars represent underdogs

reverse racism isn’t real respect your elders those who respect you roses show more beauty than we can comprehend “respect existence or expect resistance” rest in peace selena respect for women shouldn’t be gained through knowing one remember the good days every chance you get real friends make time for you release week was dope reality is distorted raw art is the truth we need ranting proves you can think random compliments are the best compliments reading puts you in another world reducing stress is impossible in our world refusing facts isn’t always because ignorance remember that you matter runaway with the person you love runaway is also a perfect song, thanx kanye roses are red roses aren’t dead riding with your friends is peaceful reintroducing people is lovely radiation levels are unnatural radical ideas are barbaric rapist don’t deserve a casket

“special shoutout to the icon dynasty slip and slide records” science is the forerunner of every subject self control is a uncommon blessing support planned parenthood support stem cell research sexism is at an all time high sadness has me believing i belong in a sanitarium sexual fantasies are normal scientist don’t lie, politicians do stop being scared secrets are esoteric seducing has to be wanted school makes me feel stupid sadness dissipates when we begin to live smoking kills shea made me sad shan made me happy strong people exist satanist aren’t bad people say no to *bad* drugs seeing old friends is refreshing sad and mad emotions ruin lives safe sex is rare saints were once sinners sinners were once saints see what i’m saying?

tranquility is achieved through our minds the meaning of life is happiness thank you for the inspiration frank o. tupac is still alive for me the world is ours taste of lips is a drug the only thing we need is love tattoos tell stories that words can’t “to die without leaving a corpse..” thank the universe or your deity everyday “torture is barbaric” the day is as only as bright as you make it tired is a real excuse for not doing things trading your soul for something always ends bad trendsetters aren’t original treat everyone you meet with respect trying to educate the ignorant is pointless tattoos at a young age show defiance tattoos don’t look gross when you get older tips are small but meaningful today is the beginning of a new life. timid people are usually the brightest tacky clothes are fun tell people how special they are tell your deepest secrets to no one take it easy

uncles’ are usually pieces of shit..lookin at you lencho using someone for sex is inhumane ultimately what defines us is our actions, not words u is the saddest song ever umbrellas are cliché understanding someone helps them get better unfortunately we can’t stop time under pressure we can sprout unite the world together again unlikely doesn’t mean impossible unless you’re dead nothing can stop you unusual organisms see us as unusual too urges can be handled uplift everyones spirits unnamed sources are the realist sources untruth the lies using the system to beat it is smart unnecessary comments don’t have to be necessary upload your experiences update your friends as much as possible urgent care is a sad place universe is in us us is nice to say uttering words isn’t always the best idea urban legends are fun to read about until we stop fighting we’ll never start loving

violins are the most beautiful instrument vibrant things give me happiness videotapes are ancient versatile mindsets are necessary very important people are not strangers with money vikings found america vivid dreams are future scenes vaccines don’t cause autism voice your opinion no matter where you live volume never seems loud enough version one is draft like vintage art is overrated verbal abuse is the worst versions show both sides view life differently vote based off personality not political party valleys are scary versace is godlike voices are deceiving vaults are examples of paranoia vice versa situations are just normal situations very good people are always unheard of veterans shouldn’t be veterans venture into the wild visit family as much as you can versus the world

would trump let jesus in our country? women deserve better “wishing things away is not effective” quote jenny we face the inner struggle of the penitent and impenitent thief war on drugs is a waste of time and money wes lang is the descendant of basquait women can hurt men too whiners can’t be choosers winning is just as scary as losing wearing all black is beautiful wanting what you can’t have is cruel would you like you? wishing for the best holds back the best watching people be themselves is interesting why do they keep killing us? when’s tranquility gonna reach us welcome new people like family weddings are a form of art why questions will never be answered why are we here? why do we battle things we can’t see? why do good things happen to bad people? why do bad things happen to good people? why is there a why if it can’t be answered? willpower is yours winning is the only option

xenophobia is wrong not matter how trump puts it xenophile is a lover for high class things xerophytic people are the strong yet depressed humans xanax are for those sad people xeriscape was created for another dustbowl xerothermic weather isn’t normal xenobiotic compounds are even antihuman xerophile organisms are relatable xenogeny is the creation and start of life xat have spiritual energies xenocide is happening to our own species xenoepist think you’re a xenoepist xenomorphs exist xeronisus happens when you don’t love that person xickovit of this country xox means a lot to me x’ing out the bad people like tic-tac-toe xanthippe was the opposite of socrates xenial countries are declining xenocracy founded america xenophobia is runs our country right now xenophobic is like homophobic, so it’s not real xanax are bad for you xenophiles need to know their boundaries x marks the spot xoxo

you don’t have to be in love to make love yelling should only be for sports events years pass like the seasons year-round happiness is important yikes at our country yearbooks shouldn’t be the only time we appreciate each other yearning is a sin but an understandable one yearlong relationships are rare yellow is the most vibrant color y chromosome organisms have no right over double x organisms y chromosome doesn’t excuse being disrespectful yellowstone is gonna explode soon yes is all you need to hear for consent ying yang symbol is life in simple terms yogism is the purest philosophy you can’t expect the unexpected your only priority is you you’ll never know what someone else is going through you are loved you are noticed you are always on someones mind you deserve better you can succeed you can inspire you will be happy you are you

zenith empires eventually fell zero was created by the mayans zodiac signs are bullshit zygotes show us how related we are zeal mindsets are important for our generation zelo was nikes brother zeal mindsets can be dangerous zero first world problems are important zuckerberg made billions off our generation zirconia isn’t diamond zero hour is the best time of the day zeta is an unearthly letter zev (zero emission vehicles) were the future zigzagging down a dark road zika needs to be defeated. zionism fucked over jerusalem zodiac killer was found zoos’ need to be more natural zebra stripes are mesmerizing zealous juries can free the criminals zaddy turns no one on zoning people out is risky zombies is who our voting system was built for zoetropes still amaze me zero stars show in the daytime zero people can talk shit about me now —

Everything in this project has meaning. Everything. I would stay up til the early hours of the morning just thinking and trying to tell my story while correlating it with symbols and clues. Notice how there is every letter in the alphabet on here twenty six times? That was a tribute to Holzers style she had on “Truisms”. Notice how every letter is lowercased? Also a tribute to Holzer. The cover art, hand drawn by the way, the cover is a skull with three roses coming out of it. Those three roses represent the three loves of my life. From best to worst going left to right. The words above them show what they gave and introduced me to. Love, lust, and lorn. All of these things are apart of life. The three emotions we all are controlled by in life. The three things that can break us from ourselves. That’s why the skull is there. After all those things I had to endure I felt nothing but dead inside. On the outside it was visible too. From the days my mother would ask me what’s wrong to the days I would break down at school. It was visible. I seemed dead on the inside. They say nothing is as dry as the bone, but I found a way to push through. My rebirth allowed me to show the world I am still here. After my battles with love a rose grew, after my battles with lust a rose grew, and even after being beat down and almost held away from the light that helped me grow, a rose grew from lorn. I am still recovering from these three things. The roses vary in stages because of this. Lorn was the most impactful on me hence why the rose is the smallest of the three. It is taking time to heal from these things, but I am reborn. Three things that have claimed my last three years. From the day after middle school ended where I was in my room all day crying because I never took a chance at shit to the first day of suicide watch. These are my past lessons. This is my life. Thank you all for allowing me to fully expose this. I hope that this can inspire you to become the best you. I hope this can inspire you that no matter how crazy, lonely, and heartbroken you feel you’re never alone on this crazy ride we call life. Thank you very much. Xoxo -Julian

P.S – Three is my lucky number

12 notes · View notes

behind-the-screen-of-bangtan · 8 years ago

Text

Who appears the most in the concept photos ?

(tl;dr: art is not an exact science. But a bit more of RM wouldn’t hurt. I put in bold other important things.)

It’s often discussed among fans how much a member appears in the MVs, the concept photos, how big his part is in a song... and it often results in complains, people always wanting more of their bias or an absolute equality between everyone.

So first let’s ask their opinion to the main interested party. Rap Mon?

“[...] we share our parts with one another, let’s not get jealous or fight over who has more parts and all that. That being said I actually have the biggest contribution to ‘Blood, Sweat & Tears’. My part comes in right after the start. Also, Suga hyung really works hard on his ‘whiskey’ part so I’m really thankful too. To be honest, as compared to me and Suga hyung, Hobie has lesser rap parts but he’s center stage for the performance. And J-Hope has the most parts from the song on a whole! So we do think that it should always rotate like this between members.” (source)

Good.

Also, let’s be honest for a second here. During a photo-shoot the boys move around, it’s a fact, just watch the Episodes of the concept photos if you doubt it. So sometimes they’re a bit out of frame or behind someone and then, don’t appear on the shot. Now think about it, you have a wonderful picture, stunning even, yet someone doesn’t appear clearly, would you use it or renounce? The artistic team decided to use it because it’s not a disaster and they don’t have eternity to do the shots - and the boys have better to do than adjusting their position to the millimetre... like playing Overwatch. For those same reasons it may happen that someone has less good pictures than the others and then ends up with fewer pages in an album book.

Now we’ll check album after album how much everyone is shown and rather than just lament on the results, I’ll also try to explain a bit how it happened (as for the why of the question, kindly go harass Big Hit ❤).

What’s important to understand is the structure of the books. Basically, it’s solo shots, group shots and varying combinations of duos/trios/quartet. Everything is arranged in a different order depending on the album.

As the details are long and boring (and as I already lost half of the courageous people who started reading that post) I’ll put the details of each album under the read-more and leave my conclusion here.

Here are the finals results.

I arranged the dimensions of the graph a bit to emphasise the differences between everyone, for visibility. The big idea is that Jin, Suga, J-hope, V and Jungkook have a close number of pictures, Jimin has clearly more and there’s a scandalous lack of Kim NamNam.

For all the reasons above I understand the number of shots can vary - hence the little differences between the five first members. Yet it doesn’t explain Jimin and RM. Out of the six albums where the numbers of shots are different, four times Jimin had the biggest amount of shots and RM the smallest (and despite that, they still love each other deeply so let’s stay calm please~).

The fact it’s often the same one that has fewer pages of solo shots or less participation in the subunits is disappointing. Especially considering one of RapMon’s nicknames is Model Mon.

However, in regard to those results, I want to add one last thing. They are different from each other and it shows clearly on those occasions. All I’m about to write is pure speculation so take it with a gigantic grain of salt.

Maybe RM doesn’t appear that much because he prefers to keep working on music rather than take a pose or act.

Maybe Jimin has more apparitions in the album book because he’s a perfectionist and as such maybe he stays in front of the camera until all the shots please him - just remember how the make-up staff designated him as the pickiest about his appearance.

Maybe Jin has fewer lyrics because he needs his brain to study at university.

Maybe J-Hope participated less in You Never Walk Alone because he wanted to rest a bit after his important part in WINGS, or because he’s working on his mixtape, like Suga with his during WINGS.

Maybe it’s just a matter of good or bad luck, as Jungkook during the shooting of the VCRs for BTS Begins where he had to stay to be filmed alone while the others could go back to the dorm, after losing at rock paper scissors.

Maybe it’s a staff decision like in “Boy In Luv”, where it went from only Jungkook declaring his love, to Jin, Jimin and Jungkook having a confession scene.

Maybe it’s all part of the theories.

Maybe fans shouldn’t give that much importance to screen time, line distribution or the number of apparition for the simple reason we have no idea of what’s happening behind the scenes.

Now here are the details for each album. Don’t mind too much the number of pages I wrote in the rankings, I counted differently each time, just use it to see the differences between each member in one album.

2 Cool 4 Skool, O!ORUL8,2?, Dark & Wild, Love Yourself 承 HER and Love Yourself 轉 Tear

Concerning these ones, it’s easy: all the members appear the exact same amount of times. It’s sets of solo shots surrounded by group shots. And sometimes some subunits.

Equality at its finest.

WINGS

WINGS is also very structured yet quite unbalanced. Each book is mainly dedicated to two members.

Concerning the solo shots: in each book, one boy has 8 pages (it happens to be the rap line) while the other has 9. And they have 3 pages together. They also appear together in the other books - the bathroom photos - on 6 pages. Except for the couple RM/JK that only appears on 4 pages. They have one last apparition on 2 pages but with their companion from HYYH (for example Philosophy Monster and V).

But none of that applies to Jin. He has 10 pages of solo shots. And he appears with all the WINGS couples in the bathroom set, making him, for once, the one that appears the most, all books combined.

Here’s the ranking to give you an idea: 1. Jin (26pages) 2. Jimin and V (20p) 3. Suga and J-Hope (19p) 4. Jungkook (18p) 5. RM (17p)

What justifies the fact that the rap line has one less shot than the maknae line? How come Cookie Monster is less present in the W book than the other WINGS couples??? Big Hit? Explain?

The Most Beautiful Moment in Life pt.1

It’s getting a bit more complicated, I’ll try to stay as simple as possible (even though I’m pretty sure no one will ever read until that point =P).

Both versions have the same beginning and ending. As the ending is only group shots there’s no problem.

Concerning the cherry blossom set from the beginning, however, it’s a bit messy. Everyone has 2 solo pages except Jimin and Jin who have 1. But that part has also subunit shots with a very unequal distribution: J-Hope, Jimin and Jungkook are in two groups, Jin, Suga and V in one and Brain Monster in none.

It gets better in the following part (the seashore for the white version and the hotel room for the pink version). Everyone has two pages in each book. Except for Jin who has 3 in the pink ver and one in the white ver. But as 2+2=4 and 1+3=4 too (no really?) there’s no inequality in the end.

Just don’t get your hopes up, we’re not finished. There’s a last part, of the other setting, with couples. Suga and Jimin as well as V and Jungkook in the white version, on 2 pages each. RM and V in the pink ver, on 1 page. (Was it so hard to find a decent picture of Jin and J-Hope on the seashore set? Seriously...)

Ranking: 1. Jungkook (11p) 2. Jimin and V (10p) 3. Suga (9p) 4. J-Hope (8p) 5. RM (7p) 6. Jin (6p)

The Most Beautiful Moment in Life pt.2

I would like to qualify that one with chaos but when you know what'll happen with the other albums, it suddenly gets quite cute.

In both versions, we have solo shots of each boy, 3 pages each time except in the blue version where Jin, Noodle Mon and Jungkook have 2 pages.

In the blue ver, there’s 1 to 3 pages of duos, while in the peach ver it’s trios (except Dance Monster and V). In the end, each boy appear six times in total... okay, okay, Jin has only 5 pages...

Despite the little subtleties of the distribution in that one, it’s actually the one with the smallest difference between the first and last: 1. Suga, J-Hope and Jimin (12p) 2. V and Jungkook (11p) 3. Jin and RM (10p)

Skool Luv Affair

The last cool one.

In the first two parts - the school and the barber shop Nothing & Nothing - everyone has 2 pages of solo shots except Suga who only got 1. In the graffiti tunnel, everyone has 1 page except Jin who has 2.

Then combining the quartets, trios and duos we have: 5 pages for Jimin, 4 pages for Jin, Suga, V and Jungkook and 2 pages for J-Hope and Mon Leader.

Which result in the following ranking: 1. Jimin (9p) 2. Jin (8p) 3. V and Jungkook (7p) 4. Suga (6p) 5. J-Hope and RM (5p)

Young Forever

So...

Let’s talk about that adorable album with aaadorable outfits and aaaaaaaaaadorable organisation ^^

There are series of solo shots. And guess what? They don’t have the same number of pages!

In the Day version, for the second series of solo, everyone has 3 pages except Jin and Jimin who have 2 and... Suga... who has... none (like, guys, did you really forget to add the Min Genius Suga in that part? ‘Cause I refuse to believe he didn’t have a single decent shot).

And no, I’m not detailing the subunits, there’s too much, each page has a different combination, it’s a mess !!!!!! Apart from the curious fact that the couple formed by J-Hope and Jimin has like thrice as many pictures than the other combinations (is Big Hit JiHope biased?).

Final ranking: 1. J-Hope (18p) 2. V (16p) 3. Jin and Jimin (14p) 4. RM and Jungkook (13p) 5. Suga (10p)

You Never Walk Alone

I... admit defeat, I’m no treating that one in details, I’ll just put the ranking:

1. Suga and Jimin (45p) 2. J-Hope and V (41p) 3. Jungkook (40p) 4. Jin (39p) 5. RM (37p)

Just know that the number of pages between the solo shots varies greatly and same with the subunits parts, which composition also changes a lot.

4 notes · View notes

sport360-one-championship · 8 years ago

Text

Asian Women’s MMA Pioneer Ann Osman Plans For Success In 2017

People love to write New Year’s Resolutions, it’s a tradition for most everyone looking to improve themselves within the next 12 months. For some, the new year represents a fresh new start and an opportunity to draw on a blank canvas — a clean slate of a story which is yet to be written.

The life of a fighter, however, is drastically different. Malaysian warrior belle Ann “Athena” Osman of Borneo Tribal Squad is one of Asia’s biggest mixed martial arts stars. She has captured the imagination of fans with her dazzling array of moves inside the cage as well as her captivating beauty outside of it.

Serving as a beacon of light to all women across the region, inspiring them to be all that they can be and to follow their dreams, Osman shared with us her three main goals for 2017, and they prove just how much hard work has played into her success as a fighter.

#1 Improve Her Skill And Technique

“People say 2016 was one of the worst years in history, but for me, I don’t think there ever really are good or bad years. It all comes down to how you look at it,” said Osman. “I have been fighting and competing in ONE Championship consistently year after year. In every fight, whether I win or I lose, there is always a lesson to be learned, and I try my best to pick up everything I can regardless of the outcome.”

Self-improvement is a recurring theme in Osman’s budding MMA career, and is also one of the founding principles of martial arts. Osman’s career in ONE Championship has been a mixed bag of highs and lows, but one thing Osman never fails to do is see the positives in each situation.

Every loss to Osman is an opportunity to identify areas of improvement, holes in her game that she can work to fill. There is no doubt Osman continues to diversify her skill set and work towards becoming a more complete fighter.

“I can say I’m pretty critical of myself. I’m the first to come up to my coach and make some suggestions on areas of my game that I feel I need to improve on,” said Osman. “Having said that, I feel that every year and every fight, every training experience, has taught me a lot not only in terms of skill and technique, but also a better understanding of the game.

“I continue to learn a lot about myself as a fighter, and that constant learning has helped me improve every single time.”

#2 Win All Of Her Fights This Year

2016 saw Osman grace the ONE Championship cage twice. A win in July over Haiat Farag showcased Osman’s vastly-improved grappling game, while an unfortunate loss to April Osenio in early September set her back. But nonetheless, Osman maintains 2016 was a good year filled with highlights in both her career and personal life.

“For me, 2016 was life-changing. First of all, I turned 30 last year, and that felt alright,” laughed Osman. “I came back after a loss in 2015 and won against Haiat Farag last July, and then two months later, unfortunately I lost to April Osenio at home in Kuala Lumpur. But it was all good, I kept my head up and continued training.”

Like most people, Osman enjoys the new year and views it as a new beginning of sorts, despite being in a constant state of training year-round. As a fighter and a world-class athlete, Osman never stops putting work in at the gym. Hard work, she says, is the secret to success.

“2017 is a new year filled with new possibilities, and everyone loves a fresh new start. As a fighter. I’m going to keep it simple and say I want to win all of my fights this year,” said Osman. “Oh, and 2016 was also the year I went from being a ‘Miss’ to a ‘Missus’!”

#3 Earn A Title Shot

Becoming a champion is every fighter’s dream. It is the pinnacle of all the time and effort put into training day in and day out. It is the apex of a fighter’s career, the goal they have been building towards with each and every fight.

In some ways, it is the final destination of a long and winding road on the path to success.

ONE Championship doesn’t officially have a female titleholder at strawweight, the division in which Osman competes. But that doesn’t mean the possibility of crowning a champion in this division is far-fetched. In the midst of budding competition, Osman could lead a group of talented female mixed martial artists as the promotion’s strawweight champion.

Despite a loss to Osenio last September, Osman believes that with enough hard work and determination, she can no doubt return to her perch atop the rankings in 2017. And somewhere down the line, if the opportunity presents itself, a shot at ONE Championship gold.

“Of course, my biggest aspiration will be someday winning a world title, but I have to work towards that,” said Osman. “With the right amount of dedication and perseverance, I believe anything is possible.”

Currently, Angela Lee is ONE Championship’s one and only female world champion holding the ONE Women’s Atomweight World Championship, but with a couple of wins under her belt and the emergence of a few solid competitors, Osman could work her way towards representing the region as a female world champion in a blossoming strawweight division.

1 note · View note

mamakoda-blog · 6 years ago

Text

Art and National Parks

What National Parks Does Every Artist Need to Visit?

The spirit of an artist is always searching for new homes for their creativity to blossom, National Parks are a perfect place to ease their restless talent with the use of the natural landscape. With over 388 National Parks around the country, varying from vase deserts to towering mountain landscapes. In the fall, Zion’s National Park begins to fill with artist ranging from photography to painters. Using the landscape, landmarks and wildlife to express and capture their passion and inspiration. With so many varieties of territory to choose from it can be difficult to decide where to “set up shop” for your creative imagination, here are 8 National Parks every artist should visit:

1. Acadia National Park-

One of the first National Parks, and one of few on the East Coast, this Maine park is home to beautiful miles of scenic coastline and ridged cliffs on the shore. This park protects some of the few mountain ranges along the east coast, who wouldn’t enjoy high mountain tops, with endless ocean and crashing coastline. Get a different perspective with something almost no park can offer, a beautiful boat ride in the salty sea along rocky coast-line. Sea Sick? Stick to the beaches and enjoy tide pooling, see the sea with new eyes. Not a fan of the ocean all together? Then enjoy the amazing mountain scenery, with the multiple outdoor activities, such as canoeing, mountain biking or even horseback riding. This park as a little of everything, with such a diverse outdoor experience the possibilities for new and exciting works of art.

With the deep blues of the sea, the bright blues of the sky, the water crashing along the cliff side with different shades of white, the varying colors of this unique park. This incredible park is perfect to intertwin love for the sea and mountain range. Paint incredible sunsets by the sea or capture lighthouses by photograph. Sailboats would also a perfect addition to any artist sketchbook. This park is, dare I say, the only one of its kind. With this park, the possibilities of new, unique artwork are endless.

2. Arches National Park-

From the Pacific to the steady red arches that dwell in one of the many parks in Utah, the park will leave any artist speechless. The many sandstone arches are stunning, almost breathtaking works of art in itself. And with a strong culture of Native American history, the lands not only beautiful but shows a story through the artwork left here. This park has skies bigger and bluer than the great blue herself, and with warm red such as the rock of Moab what artist wouldn’t want to paint such diverse colors within a landscape?

Within the nearing city of Moab, there is museum’s and shop’s of all the artwork from the sandstone within this historical park. The works of art ranging from all ages, showing the endless possibilities that is great park has to offer any artist of any age. The different ranges of color and scenery makes every work of art interesting and captivating. No matter what time of year your traveling, this is a gorgeous treasure for any artist.

3. Grand Canyon National Park-

This National park takes a special eye to appreciate this soaring sky and rooted cavern of desert cut by water, but works of art created in this park leave the viewer amazed. With 227 miles of water making incisions leaving a mile deep mark within the earth's skin. Secrets lay around every corner in this canyon, of waterfalls such as Havasu, Native American tribes and stunning formations.

The shades of the layering rock make for a perfect sanctuary for photography and combined with the bursting sky makes for ideal watercolor. Capture an “action” picture through photography as you raft through the canyon. Or perhaps find a warm corner of the canyon and paint as you soak in the sun.

4. Glacier National Park-

Montana, known for their towering mountain ranges and in the heart lies, Glacier National Park. With over 130 lakes surrounded with stunning mountain ranges and forestry. With historical backgrounds of Native American culture, this lands gives the perfect landscape to find a peace while connecting to your creative side. Any season you can find and create beautiful works of art in this incredible National Park. Visit Lake McDonald, rocks brushed with the cold, glacier water creates bright, vibrant colors such as red, turquoise and purple.

How could you not feel alive, peaceful and utter joy painting at the edge of a lake with towering glaciers and mountains? Create a conversation piece for your home, draw wildflowers, steady pines or whatever forestry you like.

5. Tetons National Park-

This celestial National Park, is full of wildlife and perfect sites to set up your esaul. One of the countries most famous mountain scape is rooted here, this breathtaking landscape will make any artist feel at home. Just a few miles away the beginning of another stunning National Park, Yellowstone. In the other direction begins the town of Jackson Hole, where many art galleries live showcasing a variety of artwork. Not only does the park have scene but wildlife that bring life into your work.

The prairies of sagebrush, intertwined with magnificent herds of elk and the famous mountain range in the distance is famous for photographers. Many of the galleries stationed in Jackson Hole are dedicated to photographers and their works of art. My personal favorite is early morning sketching, rising with many of the animals and before the tour buses show up, is highly recommend.

6. Yellowstone National Park-

The National Park a few door down from Tetons National Park, lays one of the most well known and famous National Parks, Yellowstone. With abundant hot pots bursting with color, and erupting geysers from the large underground volcano. Herds of animals differing of species such as the sturdy Bison and majestic Elk. With stunning landscapes, including waterfalls and great plans with strong pines. This National Park is a haven for any artist.

Seasons may make it more or less crowd inviting, but there is no season where the artist is uninvited. Winter is incredibly beautiful, thanks to the steam of the hot pots and bison caked in snow, in the rut, or even peacefully grazing this is the place to be.

7. Yosemite National Park-

Is well-known for the incredible landmark of towering rock and vibrant color of greenery decorating the surroundings. This amazing park is stunning and will make a perfect addition to any artwork. But be sure to make reservations because the park is so beloved campgrounds need to be made two year in advance.

Although you may have to wait two years to get your little slice of heaven within the park, it is completely worth it! You will be enchanted with these skyscrapers of cliffs and mountain ranges. Can you imagine getting to paint the famous grant rock formations? With beautiful tall tree that don’t even get close to the height of these towers. You can really explore different ideas and art ideas with this unique park.

8. Zion’s National Park-

The most well known and loved by artist is Zion’s, with festivals and galleries for the beloved artist, this park is artist sanctuary for creative minds. With hikes varying in all levels of difficulties, you can find any hike that suits what you are looking for. Angels landing has drawn people in from all different corners of the world is witness this heaven. Not to mention the beautiful, hidden slots canyons that leave anyone speechless.

October the trees at the bottom of this canyon begins to turn and blossom with color, and the artist begin rolling in. With the already exciting warm shades of orange and yellow, in the fall, the colors are only enriched with the fading trees. Bake in the sun along the riverside, as you paint the gorgeous cliffs of Zions. And if you’re lucky you’ll see some very unique wildlife, such as the terrifyingly stunning tarantulas. Go see what you can find.

If you look back at this list you’re going to wonder if this list is from best to worst? Or greatest to least? I just put these parks is Alphabetical Order, because there is no better or worst, everyone has their own personal connection to different National Parks, leaving a different, lasting impression on each of us. Your challenge is to discover those connections to each of these parks for yourself. Now your role, as an artist, to go enjoy and create masterpieces a little closer to nature within these beloved National Treasures. Whatever style of art you are interested in, or however “good” of an artist you are or “think” you are, you won’t regret taking your art with you to these amazing destinations. Now go see what you can create.

0 notes

sophiewriteswordsfromfaraway · 6 years ago

Text

13: HUSTLIN’ AND BUSTLIN’ IN TOKYO

DAY 1

We grabbed a quick lunch at the train station before boarding our train, and in the blink of an eye, we stepped out into the colorful, frenetic streets of Tokyo.

First, we needed to navigate Tokyo’s visually jarring subway system to find our hostel. The subway map itself (worth a google) looks like a spiderweb, each colored subway line weaving through the others until you can barely make out where one begins and another ends. However, once you get past the initial confusion, it is obvious how efficiently designed the whole system is. We quickly found our hostel tucked away in a quiet side street, dropped off our bags, and headed back out into the madness.

We made our way to Shibuya Crossing.

THE SCRAMBLE AT SHIBUYA CROSSING:

Said to be the busiest crosswalk in the world, Shibuya Crossing is the intersection of 7 major crossroads. Every two minutes, hundreds (or thousands, depending on the time of day) of people frantically cross the street in all directions in what is known as “The Scramble.” It is quite an impressive sight from a window of any one of the towering buildings surrounding the crossing and an even more impressive experience from the ground.

Mesmerized, Ryan and I watched the crossing several times from the window of Shibuya train station before wandering down to join the crowds cross the street. It was the epitome of organized chaos.

For dinner, Ryan and I stumbled upon, believe it or not, Taco Bell. We had heard about the supposed Japan-only menu and fancy decor, and we couldn’t resist checking it out. I must say that it lived up to the hype. The store itself was sleek and modern, and the menu featured several (surprisingly delicious) specialty items.

DAY 2

The next day started with a trip to Akihabara or “Electric Town,” a neighborhood famed for its many electronics shops. Ryan and I checked out Yodobashi Camera, one of the area’s electronic megastores. We wandered through the complex’s NINE floors, each featuring a vast array of products from cameras to washing machines to rice cookers to gaming consoles. In recent years, Akihabara has also become known as the center of Otaku culture.

OTAKU: AN EXPLANATION

In Japan, otaku refers to young people with obsessive pop culture interests, particularly anime, manga, and gaming. To put it simply, they are very, very dedicated fans.

Because of the otaku influence, Akihabara is dotted with massive game centers, maid cafes, collectible shops, comic book shops, and game/anime/manga-themed cafes. Costumes, cartoons, and massive, colorful signage don every inch of the area. It is pop-culture Japan at its finest.

After lunch, we headed to the Tokyo National Museum for a completely different vantage point of Japanese culture. On the way, we walked through Uneo Park where we were able to witness the beautiful, modern celebration of hanami.

HANAMI? YOU BARELY EVEN KNOW ME.

Okay. Enough of that.

I mentioned Hanami in my previous post about Kyoto. Basically, it is the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the fleeting beauty of the cherry blossoms. The custom was established in the late 700s and has continued since that time. Often, people celebrate this custom by eating a picnic lunch under the trees.

Ryan and I were lucky enough to witness this celebration first hand. It was absolutely incredible. Hundreds of people were sitting on tarps or blankets under the pink blossoms. Many groups used upside down cardboard boxes as a table to spread their lunch out on. I was amazed and so touched by the communal atmosphere. It was truly a sight to see.

After walking through the park, we arrived at the Tokyo National Museum, which is actually multiple museum buildings spread out across beautiful grounds. The museum features an unbelievable amount of Asian art, historical artifacts, and archeological items. The collection was extremely thorough and very impressive. Each building offered a unique perspective on Asian culture and history. I especially enjoyed the cherry blossom exhibit, which featured art, poetry, and cultural artifacts all celebrating the sakura trees.

For dinner, we went to the famed T’s Tantan, a vegan ramen shop in the bottom of Tokyo Station. When we arrived, there was already a line out the door waiting to be seated. We joined the line, and soon we were ushered inside. One thing is for certain, it was well worth the wait. My meal consisted of crispy gyozas and a creamy, peanutty broth with ramen noodles and fresh greens. We were in heaven.

To cap off an incredible day, we decided to participate in a slightly-more-modern-but-equally-as-important Japanese custom: karaoke.

KARAOKE? SERIOUSLY?

Yes, karaoke. Yes, seriously. Now, you have to understand, Japanese people do not participate in the flippant American-style karaoke at a random bar. No. They have massive, multi-story buildings with hundreds of rooms dedicated to the art of karaoke. These rooms vary in size but always contain a TV, multiple microphones, additional percussion instruments (think maracas and tambourines), colorful lights, and a complete sound system.

Unsure of what to expect, Ryan and I rented a karaoke room for an hour. We rode the elevator up several floors and found our room. It was small with couches lining 3 walls, a large TV with a sound system, and a coffee table in center. On the table, there were two microphones and a remote/keypad for the TV. We punched in a song and grabbed our microphones. As the music began, the overhead lights dimmed and a colorful disco ball on the ceiling lit up. We were in full-on karaoke mode. It was a blast. We sang song after song, dancing and laughing. When our hour was over, we extended our rental for another hour.

Japan got a lot of things right, and I can definitively say that karaoke is one of them.

DAY 3

Our third day in Tokyo began in the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a gorgeous botanical garden with incredible character. It is comprised of three different sections: a Japanese garden (complete with a traditional tea house), a French rose garden, and an English landscape garden. Because of the cherry trees, we chose to spend most of our time in the Japanese garden. We chose right.

The garden was a beautiful flurry of color and people. It boasted two rippling ponds, a simple, arching bridge, a gorgeous tea house overlooking the garden, and, of course, an abundance of cherry blossoms. We walked through the garden, watching the pink and white petals fall from the trees like snow.

After getting our fill of garden time, we walked to the nearby Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The building is 48 floors tall with an incredible (and free) 360 degree observation deck at the top. The view was breathtaking: row upon row of tall buildings interrupted only by patches of green space. From this perspective, it was clear that Tokyo is one of the world’s largest cities.

After a quick lunch, we made our way through the lush Yoyogi Park to the Meji Shrine, a famed Shinto shrine in the middle of the park. The shrine is announced by a massive torii gate and surrounded by a forest of tall trees. Keeping in traditional shinto design, the Meji Shrine features simple buildings and a serene atmosphere. The paths leading in and out of the shrine complex are lined with cedar trees.

The moment of nature and relative quiet quickly disappeared as we emerged from the park into the bustling Harajuku neighborhood. Harajuku is famous for its eclectic art and fashion scene. We began our exploration at the the heart of Harajuku: Takeshita Dori, aka Takeshita Street. This narrow pedestrian shopping street is lined with tiny snack shops selling treats like Japanese-style crepes and bubble tea, boutiques selling otherworldly clothes and accessories, and basement level Purikura booths.

PURIKURA: A TEENAGE CRAZE

Purikura is a small photo booth machine that creates photo stickers rather than regular photographs. After taking a photo, the user can edit the photo and add designs, cartoons, or other effects. Purikura is extremely popular with Japanese teenagers.

Takeshita Dori has become world famous for its popularization of very specific fashion trends, such as kawaii culture, which focuses on creating a childlike, cute, and shy persona. It was an unique look into the world of Japanese street fashion. For the rest of the afternoon, Ryan and I wandered down the streets of Harajuku, exploring whatever shops caught our fancy.

For dinner, we rode the subway to a Hawaiian-Japanese fusion vegetarian restaurant called Olu’Olu Cafe. The cafe was cozy and the food was absolutely incredible.

DAY 4

Our fourth day was completely dedicated to one thing: the Tokyo Giants.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF BASEBALL IN JAPAN:

In the early 1870s, an American expat named Horace Wilson introduced a game involving a bat, ball, and bases to his students at (what would become) Tokyo University. In 1878, the first official team was organized, and by the turn of the century, university and amatuer leagues were cropping up all over the country. At this point, American teams began travelling across the Pacific to play ball against the Japanese teams. In 1936, the Japan Professional Baseball League was formed and, as they say, the rest is history.

After a lazy morning, we arrived early to the Tokyo Dome for our midday game. The massive, air-supported dome is a pretty spectacular visual in itself. It sits in the middle of Tokyo Dome City, a large area that also features an amusement park, shopping center, a variety of restaurants, and a hotel. We walked around the dome area and had lunch at one the restaurants.

As game time approached, we entered the stadium in search of the perfect spot to stand. That’s right, stand. Because the game was totally sold out, there were only standing room tickets available.

ASIDE:

Though it was admittedly a long time to stand, it gave us the perfect opportunity to both watch the game and explore the stadium. Also, the tickets are only 1000 yen (aka 8 dollars), which allows people of all socioeconomic status to attend a game. Pretty amazing if you ask me.

Now, you have to understand that Japanese fans are REALLY dedicated. People who have season tickets in the standing zones arrive to the stadium hours early to tape newspaper or tarps on the floor to mark their spot. They have personalized chants for every member of the team, and the cheering never stops. The whole stadium was filled incredible energy and excitement. Oh, and fans can bring in whatever food or drink they want, so no one had to pay 18 dollars for a hotdog. Imagine that.

DAY 5

Our last day in Tokyo was spent at Odaiba, a man made island in Tokyo Bay. Originally the island was built as a kind of fort to protect the city against seabourne attacks. Now, it serves as a shopping and entertainment district. We took the train across the bridge to the island to explore. We walked around the impeccably-designed malls, sauntered along the rocky beachfront, and admired the small-scale replica of the Statue of Liberty. Yes, you read right. We were confused too, and frankly, there isn’t really an explanation.

Our favorite thing, though, was the Toyota Megaweb Complex. We began by exploring the History Garage, an aptly decorated museum showcasing classic cars from all over the world produced during the 1950s to 1970s. It was fascinating to see the evolution of automobile design throughout the decades.

Next, we ventured to the “Line-Up Zone,” which was basically a huge showroom featuring the current Toyota vehicles on the market (including their awesome handicap accessible models). We were able to look inside and sit in each car. We also attended a 4-D film (think fake wind and hydraulic chairs) shot from the perspective of the driver of various Toyota vehicles.

Last, we went to the “Technology Zone,” where Toyota’s most impressive technological advancements in safety, environmental impact, and design were on display. Ryan and I were each able to test out the “Winglet,” Toyota’s answer to the Segway. With the assistance of a Winglet specialist, we were briefed on the features and were able to perform a series of mobility tests. Basically, we rolled around on an electric scooter for like half an hour. It was pretty freaking cool.

We returned back to the city for dinner and, obviously, one final karaoke session.

DAY 6

We bid farewell to Tokyo and made our way to the airport in pursuit of our next destination.

AWAY WE G-----

Hold on, before we go, I need to insert a quick disclaimer. Yes, we ate sushi. It was very good. I did not feel the need to go into detail about this earlier as we all know what sushi is. Okay? Okay.

AWAY WE GO TO SEOUL.

#tokyo #japan #esl #teacher #greenheart #travel #xploreasia #holiday #vacation #giants #tokyodome

0 notes