#its... okay 'main' language german is all in europe

[meirmakesstuff]

1/2 Hi Meir! I saw your answer on WWC, and since you mentioned you're professionals, I figured I'd ask directly: I'm writing a second world fantasy with a jewish coded people. I want to be clear in the coding but avoid the "if there's no egypt, how can there be passover?" so I called them Canaanites. I thought I was being clever by hinting in the naming that the whole region does exist, but I've since read that it might've been a slur in fact? Do you have any advice on this?

2/2 I did consider calling the group in question Jewish, but aside from how deeply Judaism is connected to the history of the Israelites, I haven't used any present-day real-world names for any other group, (I did use some historic names like Nubia). I feel like calling only one group of people by their currently used name would be othering rather than inclusive? Or am I overthinking this?

Okay so I want to start out with some disclaimers, first that although WWC recently reblogged an addition of mine to one of their posts, I am not affiliated with @writingwithcolor​, and second that the nature of trying to answer a question like this is “two Jews, three opinions,” so what I have to say about this is my own opinion(s) only. Last disclaimer: this is a hard question to address, so this answer is going to be long. Buckle up.

First, I would say that you’re right to not label the group in question “Jewish” (I’ll get to the exception eventually), and you’re also right in realizing that you should not call them “Canaanites.” In Jewish scripture, Canaanites are the people we fought against, not ourselves, so that wouldn’t feel like representation but like assigning our identity to someone else, which is a particular kind of historical violence Jews continue to experience today. I’ll get back to the specific question of naming in a moment, but because this is my blog and not WWC, and you asked me to speak to this as an educator, we’re going to take a detour into Jewish history and literary structure before we get back to the question you actually asked.

To my mind there are three main ways to have Jews in second-world fantasy and they are:

People who practice in ways similar to modern real-world Jews, despite having developed in a different universe,

People who practice in ways similar to ancient Hebrews, because the things that changed us to modern Jewish practice didn’t occur, and

People who practice in a way that shows how your world would influence the development of a people who started out practicing like ancient Hebrews and have developed according to the world they’re in. 

The first one is what we see in @shiraglassman​‘s Mangoverse series: there is no Egypt yet her characters hold a seder; the country coded Persian seems to bear no relation to their observance of Purim, and there is no indication of exile or diaspora in the fact that Jews exist in multiple countries and cultures, and speak multiple languages including Yiddish, a language that developed through a mixture of Hebrew and German. Her characters’ observance lines up approximately with contemporary Reform Jewish expectations, without the indication of there ever having been a different practice to branch off from. She ignores the entire question of how Jews in her universe became what they are, and her books are lyrical and sweet and allow us to imagine the confidence that could belong to a Jewish people who weren’t always afraid.

Shira is able to pull this off, frankly, because her books are not lore-heavy. I say this without disrespect--Shira often refers to them as “fluffy”--but because the deeper you get into the background of your world and its development, the trickier this is going to be to justify, unless you’re just going to just parallel every historical development in Jewish History, including exile and diaspora across the various nations of your world, including occasional near-equal treatment and frequent persecution, infused with a longing for a homeland lost, or a homeland recently re-established in the absolutely most disappointing of ways.

Without that loss of homeland or a Mangoverse-style handwaving, we have the second and third options. In the second option, you could show your Jewish-coded culture having never been exiled from its homeland, living divided into tribes each with their own territory, still practicing animal, grain, and oil sacrifice at a single central Temple at the center of their nation, overseen by a tribe that lacks territory of their own and being supported by the sacrifices offered by the populace.

If you’re going to do that, research it very carefully. A lot of information about this period is drawn from scriptural and post-scriptural sources or from archaeological record, but there’s also a lot of Christian nonsense out there assigning weird meanings and motivations to it, because the Christian Bible takes place during this period and they chose to cast our practices from this time as evil and corrupt in order to magnify the goodness of their main character. In any portrayal of a Jewish-coded people it’s important to avoid making them corrupt, greedy, bigoted, bloodthirsty, or stubbornly unwilling to see some kind of greater or kinder truth about the world, but especially if you go with this version. 

The last option, my favorite but possibly the hardest to do, is to imagine how the people in the second option would develop given the influences of the world they’re in. Do you know why Chanukah is referred to as a “minor” holiday? The major holidays are the ones for which the Torah specifies that we “do not work:” Rosh Hashannah, Yom Kippur, and the pilgrimage holidays of Sukkot, Passover, and Shavuot. Chanukah developed as a holiday because the central temple, the one we made those pilgrimages to, was desecrated by the invading Assyrian Greeks and we drove them out and were able to re-establish the temple. That time. Eventually, the Temple was razed and we were scattered across the Roman Empire, developing the distinct Jewish cultures we see today. The Greeks and Romans aren’t a semi-mythologized ancient people, the way the Canaanites have been (though there’s increasing amounts of archaeology shedding light on what they actually might have been like), we have historical records about them, from them. The majority of modern Jewish practice developed from the ruins of our ancient practices later than the first century CE. In the timeline of Jewish identity, that’s modern.

The rabbinic period and the Temple period overlap somewhat, but we’re not getting into a full-scale history lesson here. Suffice it to say that it was following the loss of the sacrificial system at the central Temple that Judaism coalesced an identity around verbal prayer services offered at the times of day when we would previously have offered sacrifices, led each community by its own learned individual who became known as a rabbi. We continued to develop in relationship with the rest of the world, making steps toward gender equality in the 1970s and LGBT equality in the 2000s, shifting the meaning of holidays like Tu Bishvat to address climate change, debating rulings on whether one may drive a car on Shabbat for the sake of being with one’s community, and then pivoting to holding prayer services daily via Zoom.

The history of the Jews is the history of the world.  Our iconic Kol Nidrei prayer, the centerpiece of the holiest day of the year, that reduces us to tears every year at its first words, was composed in response to the Spanish Inquisition. The two commentators who inform our understanding of scripture--the ones we couldn’t discuss Torah without referencing even if we tried--wrote in the 11th and 12th centuries in France and Spain/Egypt. Jewish theology and practice schismed into Orthodox and Reform (and later many others) because that’s the kind of discussion people were into in the 19th century. Sephardim light Chanukah candles in an outdoor lamp while Ashkenazim light Chanukah candles in an indoor candelabrum because Sephardim developed their traditions in the Middle East and North Africa and the Ashkenazim developed our traditions in freezing Europe. There are works currently becoming codified into liturgy whose writers died in 2000 and 2011. 

So what are the historical events that would change how your Jewish-coded culture practices, if they don’t involve loss of homeland and cultural unity? What major events have affected your world? If there was an exile that precipitated an abandonment of the sacrificial system, was there a return to their land, or are they still scattered? Priority one for us historically has been maintaining our identity and priority two maintaining our practices, so what have they had to shift or create in order to keep being a distinct group? Is there a major worldwide event in your world? If so, how did this people cope?

If you do go this route, be careful not to fall into tropes of modern or historical antisemitism: don’t have your culture adopt a worldview that has their deity split into mlutiple identities (especially not three). Don’t have an oppressive government that doesn’t represent its people rise up to oppress outsiders within its borders (this is not the first time this has occurred in reality, but because the outside world reacts differently to this political phenomenon when it’s us than when it’s anyone else, it’s a portrayal that makes real-life Jews more vulnerable). And don’t portray the people as having developed into a dark and mysterious cult of ugly, law-citing men and beautiful tearstreaked women, but it doesn’t sound as if you were planning to go there.

So with all that said, it’s time to get back to the question of names. All the above information builds to this: how you name this culture depends on how you’ve handled their practice and identity. 

Part of why Shira Glassman’s handwaving of the question of how modern Jewish practice ended up in Perach works is that she never gives a name to the religion of her characters. Instead, she names the regions they come from. Perach, in particular, the country where most of the action takes place, translates to “Flower.” In this case, her Jewish-coded characters who come from Perach are Perachis, and characters from other places who are also Jewish are described as “they worship as Perachis do despite their different language” or something along those lines (forgive me, Shira, for half-remembering).

So that’s method one: find an attribute of your country that you’d like to highlight, translate it into actual Hebrew, and use that as your name.

Method two is the opposite: find a name that’s been used to identify our people or places (we’ve had a bunch), find out what it means or might mean in English, and then jiggle that around until it sounds right for your setting. You could end up with the nation of the Godfighters, or Children of Praise, The Wanderers (if they’re not localized in a homeland), The Passed-Over, Those From Across The River, or perhaps the people of the City of Peace.

Last, and possibly easiest, pick a physical attribute of their territory and just call them that in English. Are they from a mountainous region? Now they’re the Mountain People. Does their land have a big magical crater in the middle? Craterfolk. Ethereal floating forests of twinkling lights? It’s your world.

The second option is the only one that uses the name to overtly establish Jewish coding. The first option is something Jews might pick up on, especially if they speak Hebrew, but non-Jews would miss. The third avoids the question and puts the weight of conveying that you’re trying to code them as Jewish on their habits and actions.

There’s one other option that can work in certain types of second-world fantasy, and that’s a world that has developed from real-world individuals who went through some kind of portal. That seems to me the only situation in which using a real-world name like Jews, Hebrews, or Israelites would make sense. Jim Butcher does this with the Romans in the Codex Alera series, and Katharine Kerr does it with Celts in the Deverry cycle. That kind of thing has to be baked into the world-building, though, so it probably doesn’t help with this particular situation. 

This is a roundabout route to what I imagine you were hoping would be an easier answer. The tension you identified about how to incorporate Jewishness into a world that doesn’t have the same history is real, and was the topic of a discussion I recently held with a high school age group around issues of Jewish representation in the media they consume and hope to create. Good luck in your work of adding to the discussion.

[wiypt-writes]

Stark Spangled Banner

Ch30: Winter Is Here

Summary: In the wake of the UN Bombing, Steve, Katie and Sam (with help from Sharon) track Bucky to Bucharest and face a race against time to track him down before the CTU. But someone else is also following Bucky, someone who’s been one step ahead and the consequences are disastrous.

Warnings: Bad Language words.

Pairing: Steve Rogers x OFC Katie Stark

A/N: Elements of this have been reworked/rewritten…for reasons which will become apparent at some point!

Disclaimer: This is a pure work of fiction and classified as 18+. Please respect this and do not read if you are underage. I do not own any characters in this series bar Katie Stark and the other OCs. By reading beyond this point you understand and accept the terms of this disclaimer.

Chapter 29 Part 2

Stark Spangled Banner Masterlist // Main Masterlist

Bucky liked Bucharest. It was easy enough to blend in and he’d found work at a local Warehouse easily enough. It was no questions asked, cash in hand and no trail. Perfect. Physical labour didn’t bother him, neither did taking the nightshifts which no one else seemed to want. It meant he could sleep most of the days and emerge later at night meaning he had even less people to encounter and deal with. Not that it really mattered, no one really bothered him apart from the Old Lady that lived a few floors down. Bucky often did odd jobs for her, just like he had used to for the old couple that lived across from his parents in Brooklyn before the war.

Since arriving in Europe in September last year, his life had been pretty peaceful. His memories had started to flash back almost the instant he wasn’t re-wiped by HYDRA, but they were random, non-chronological, so he had started writing them in a notebook along with other snippets and facts he found along the way which helped him piece together the parts of the puzzle that was his life. He knew his name, his date of birth, who his parents were, his siblings, Steve- his brother-from-another-Mother, the Howling Commandos, Steve’s wife- Katie,  his ‘death’ and then… well, that bit he tried not to remember on purpose.

He felt better, like himself, and had on more than one occasion thought about reaching out to Steve. But the thing was, even though he’d now been out of HYDRA control for over two years, he knew that what they had done to him or put in his head was still there, and he didn’t want to give anyone the chance to find out the hard-way or give them chance to lock him up like some lab rat. So he had decided it was best to stay off radar.

Pulling his cap down a little, he headed over to his favourite fruit store for some plums. He remembered what a treat they had been back before the war, and he enjoyed the fact they were so readily available now. He reached out with his flesh hand to gently test one. 

“How are they? Are they good?” He asked the vendor in Romanian who nodded to him, smiling “Okay. Give me six, thank you”

With his bag of fruit he walked along, casually scanning around as he ate. And then, across the street, he spotted a vendor at a news-stand watching him. Bucky glanced away hastily then looked back at the man who was still watching him before he suddenly turned and ran from his kiosk. With a sick feeling in his stomach,  Bucky made his way over and picked up a paper reading the front page which contained a number of surveillance-photos and the head line: ‘Winter Soldier cautat pentru Bombardmentul din Viena’. 

A cold feeling washed all over him and he glanced around, swallowing thickly. 

He might have struggled with his memory in the past but he could categorically say this wasn’t one of those times. This wasn’t him, granted it looked like him, but it wasn’t.

Shit, he needed to hide.

Pulling his cap down further, jacket pulled up round his neck he set off home.

****** Having your own private plane certainly has its perks. Katie, Sam and Steve made their way to Vienna and from there, after being given a lead from Sharon, they headed to Bucharest. Steve and Sam had brought all their equipment whereas Katie had opted to simply pack her cat suit and utility belt as they weren’t anticipating any action.

A decision she was starting to regret now.

“Nice place.” Katie commented sarcastically, pulling at the neck of her leather cat-suit as they entered the old rundown apartment that Bucky Barnes now called home. Steve ignored the comment before he carefully closed the door behind them. The two of them ventured further into the small darkened apartment, the windows had been taped over with old newspapers keeping out most of the sunlight and prying eyes. Steve’s shield caught a few of the spots of light which were creeping through tears and gaps in the paper, sending reflections onto bits of the apartment walls. The bedroom and the living area were one, a tattered mattress placed just beneath the window a small desk and lamp next to it. Across from the bed near the entrance was a metal table with two chairs next to it, then there was the kitchen area and a door, which Katie headed through, gun at the ready, finding nothing but a small, grimy and empty bathroom.

She couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of sadness in her gut that the man who had saved her life, a war veteran, was living like this.

Steve took to looking around the kitchen and had found a notebook of sorts with tabs of varying colours sticking out from amongst the pages. As he flicked through he found a leaflet on the Smithsonian Captain America exhibit.

"Heads up guys, German Special Forces approaching from the South.” Sam’s voice came through the coms.

“Understood.” Steve replied gently, replacing the leaflet in the page he had found it, fingers lingering on the paper. He looked up at Katie as she re-entered the room.

“Nobody’s home.” She said softly. “What you got there?” “It’s a journal.” Steve said, “He’s been writing down memories and-“

He stopped dead as a movement crossed his peripheral and his head jerked up. Over his wife’s shoulder he locked eyes with Bucky for the first time since that day over the Potomac. Katie, noticing his demeanour, glanced over her shoulder and instantly spun round to see Bucky watching the pair of them with a cautious sort of curiosity.

“Do you know me?” Steve asked carefully, setting the book he was flipping through down on the cluttered counter. He moved in front of Katie slightly, keeping himself between her and his best friend who was stood stock still, eyeing them up.

“You’re Steve,” Bucky said roughly, “I read about you in a museum.”  He added immediately, nodding to himself. 

Play dumb, Bucky, play dumb…

“They’ve set the perimeter.” Sam spoke in their ears.

“I know you’re nervous, and you’ve got plenty of reason to be, but you’re lying.” Steve spoke calmly, not believing him for a second. He could always tell when Bucky was lying, even as kids he wouldn’t look you in the eye fully, and now wasn’t any different.

“I wasn’t in Vienna. I don’t do that anymore.”  Bucky’s voice wavered slightly, almost pleading with them to believe him. And instantly Katie did.

“They’re entering the building. “ Sam urged. 

“Well, the people who think you did are coming here now.” Katie took a small step forward so that she was slightly in front of Steve. “And they’re not planning on taking you alive.”

 “That’s smart. Good strategy.” He looked at her, cocking his head to one side as he studied her. She was oozing confidence, are far cry from the broken, shattered woman he had rescued last year, and she didn’t seem afraid of him. Which he liked but also didn’t because it meant they weren’t going to just let him slip away.

“They’re on the roof. I’m compromised!”

“This doesn’t have to end in a fight ,Buck.” Steve pleaded desperately while Bucky simply walked over to the table set down his plastic bag and pulled off his glove to reveal his metal hand.

“It always ends in a fight.” He said balling the metal into a fist, his voice lilted with sadness.

“Five seconds.”

“You pulled me from the river and you saved Katie’s life that day in La Ronde.” Steve’s voice took on an urgent tone, almost shouting. “Why?”

“I don’t know.” Bucky replied in frustration finally looking up at Steve and locking eyes with him before he glanced to Katie. Truth be told he did know. That day on the Potomac something had broken his programming, and when Steve had plunged to the river he had known he had to save him, because he had been saving him all his punk-assed life. And then with Katie, well, even before he had recognised her he couldn’t leave a dame to the mercy of HYDRA, not after what they did to him. It was wrong…his ma taught him better.

“Three seconds.”

“Yes you do.” Steve responded,

“Breach, breach, breach!” Came the yell into their earpieces.

Both Steve and Katie looked towards the window prompting Bucky to do the same and in the next second a flash bomb was thrown through, Steve batted it right back out with his shield and then a second bomb came through the other window. Bucky booted it towards Steve who dropped and covered it with his shield, containing the blast. All three of them looked at one another for a split second before a loud bang sounded as the door rattled. Katie quickly kicked the edge of the table so that it wedged between the door and the wall blocking the German Forces entrance for now.

Whilst she was distracted with that, a final bomb was thrown and Bucky lifted up the dirty mattress using it as protection for them both. She nodded to him gently as he tossed it away and then came the soldiers on zip lines through the window. The first landed in the kitchen, training his gun first on Steve, then across towards Bucky, but before he could shoot Steve pulled the rug from beneath him and he ended up firing into the ceiling. The next came in through the window right next to Bucky but he punched him in the face, throwing him over to Katie who aimed a kick at his arm, knocking the gun out of it before kicking him again in the chest, sending him sprawling into the bathroom. Bucky picked the third soldier up easily and slammed him into the wall, letting him fall down.

“Buck, stop! You’re gonna kill someone.” Steve ran forward, but Bucky easily dodged him and slammed into him from behind, knocking him to the floor.

“I’m not gonna kill anyone!” He growled, punching a hole into the floor. He grabbed a backpack from under the floorboards and threw it across the room and out of the window. Then came more gun fire and Katie dropped to the floor, rolling to her right and firing a shot in the direction of the shooting hearing a yell as her bullet hit her target in the knee. Steve, again, flung his shield up and Bucky shoved him hard in the back sending him flying into another solider, taking him down. Katie scrambled to her feet again unable to do anything but watch as Bucky punched a hole through the wall next to the door before bashing it open and continuing to fight his way out.

“You alright?” Steve asked, as she dusted herself off.

“This isn’t exactly going to plan is it?” She shook her head as they ran out of the door just in time to see Bucky jump on a soldier who was descending from a zip wire and swinging down a level in the stairwell of the apartment block. One of the soldiers was screaming into his radio. Steve grabbed it from him, then smashed it with his foot before he jumped down a level after Bucky. Katie, took the sensible option and ran down the stairs, taking out anyone blocking her way.

Bucky was punching soldiers left and right until he ducked as he hit another accidentally sending him over the railing, but Steve was quick to catch him by his vest.

“Come on man,” He sighed wearily. Bucky’s only response was a shrug which he emphasized by elbowing a soldier that was behind him, while Steve pulled up the one he was holding onto and tossed him into a wall. Bucky jumped over the railing down several flights but by the time Steve caught up with him he had dodged into an apartment and jumped from the railings

“Damned it!” Steve cursed as he watched Bucky land on the lower roof of the neighbouring building with some force, but he simply rolled as if the fall hadn’t bothered him at all, picked up his backpack and ran.  But he didn’t get far, a muscular man clad entirely in black slammed into him from behind knocking him down.

“Sam southwest rooftop.” Steve suddenly reported to Sam as he watched the man in the black suit, which looked very much like a big cat moved with breath-taking agility and grace, slashing with sharp claws on each hand as he tackled Bucky.

“Who the hell’s the other guy?” Sam asked Steve on the coms.  

“I’m about to find out.” Steve backed up before he too launched himself from the balcony down onto the neighbouring building. Katie ran into the apartment just in time to see him land on the other roof-top and she frowned at the mystery man in some form of cat suit who was lunging at Bucky with his claws. Bucky grabbed his wrists holding him off but at that moment a helicopter that had appeared began to fire its machine gun. Both Katie from her vantage point, and Steve who was bolting towards the men, frowned as he saw the ammo ping back off the man’s suit just like it did off his shield.

“Sam…” Katie said as Steve continued to run towards Bucky, shield raised. Sam understood what she was implying instantly.  

“Got him.” He replied, flying down he spun under the chopper, grabbing the rails at the bottom, spinning it off course before swooping off. As Katie continued to watch Bucky leapt off the side of the roof to the floor, and the mystery cat man followed using his claws for traction down the side of the building. Steve was shortly behind, rolling along the floor before picking himself up and running after the pair of them, Sam flying behind. Then, the helicopter began to follow, gunfire tearing up the side walk.  

“Shit.” Katie ran down and emerging into the street, sprinting as fast as she could. Spotting an abandoned motorbike which had been ditched in the fracas she hopped on and sped after them, mentally thanking Natasha for the bike driving lessons.

It was chaos, absolute chaos. Bucky jumped down through a gap into the underpass, Steve and the mystery cat man following, as they themselves were being pursued by an armoured vehicle. Well, at least they were until Steve managed to pull the driver out and take the vehicle himself. He saw a motorbike coming up behind him in the mirrors and did a double take as he saw it was Katie. She pulled up alongside him and with one hand she grabbed the passenger door and yanked it open, before placing both her hands on the rim of the door and using it as leverage to swing herself feet first into the car.

“Where did you learn to do that?” Steve asked, open mouthed as she dropped into the seat next to him.

“Nat.” She shrugged, as if it was a perfectly normal thing to do or be taught. Steve gave a small smirk and then turned to look back at the road, switching lanes and cruising past mystery cat man.  Then there was a thud and Katie glanced back over her shoulders. Mystery cat man had latched himself onto the back of the car.

“Hold on!” Steve yelled before swerving the car to the right then the left hoping to dislodge him but no such luck. He even rammed the side of the car into another Special Forces vehicle but nothing, he hung tight.

“Sam we can’t shake this guy.” Steve reported.

“Right behind you.”

In front of them Bucky jumped the barrier to the other side of the road so Steve dropped the car a gear and pressed harder on the gas, breaking straight through it. A quick glance through the mirrors told Katie that it was enough to slow down the Germans but not to dislodge their passenger.

“This guy is more of a pain in the ass than Tony.” Katie sighed, turning back to look out of the front. Just as she did, Bucky clearly decided he needed his own mode of transportation and grabbed the handle bars of a motorbike which was speeding towards him. He dislodged the driver in mid-air while the bike spun and threw his leg over the seat all in one fluid motion. He then landed and sped away.

“Holy shit!” Katie let out a small laugh of disbelief, her jaw dropping slightly as she smirked at Bucky’s unbelievable display of acrobatics. “Did you see that?”

Steve looked at her for a split second, taking in the smirk on her face as she admired Bucky’s agility, surprised to feel he was slightly jealous. With a sigh, more at himself than anything, he shook his head. That insecure little kid from Brooklyn really had picked the most inappropriate time to appear. It didn’t help when she spoke again, a cheeky lilt to her voice.

“Can you do that?”

Steve shot her a glare that would make anyone else shake in their boots but it made Katie do nothing but frown at the open display of hostility he very rarely used on her. Before she could respond, however, there was a thud on the roof as mystery cat man climbed on top of the car and then launched himself at Bucky. The soldier on the bike was prepared though, and grabbed him around the throat, flinging him over his head. But the mystery cat man was persistent, hanging on even as the bike tipped and Bucky was forced to use his metal hand so that he didn’t fall off the bike completely. He kicked the cat man away before straightening his bike and speeding ahead.

Steve swerved to avoid running mystery cat man over while he caught other means of transportation, meaning he grabbed onto Sam’s legs as he was flying by. Ahead of them Bucky threw a sticky bomb at the top of the overpass which immediately went off and began raining down debris.  

“Time to go.” Steve grabbed Katie as he slammed on the breaks turning the car sharply. He pulled her out of the door, using his shield to land on as the car began to tilt on its side. They dodged through the rubble, Steve’s shield over their heads and once they were clear, Steve sped off to where the cat man was mounted on top of Bucky ready to rip his throat out.

Sam emerged from the dust but seconds later there was loud clang and War Machine landed holding up his hand with repulsor beams at the ready in warning. More German Special Forces arrived and they knew the game was up. But Steve and Katie both looked at each other, chests heaving with exertion and dare they say it, relief. They had located Bucky after years of searching, he was still alive and could be questioned, which meant there was a chance they could clear all this up.

Steve felt Bucky step forward, and he instantly held his arm out to stop him. .

“Stand down now.” Rhodey spoke with authority and the Special Forces aimed their guns at them all. Steve relented placing his shield onto his back harness showing compliance as he held his hands up, palms outwards.

“Congratulations Cap, you’re a criminal.” Rhodey said sarcastically. As soldiers surrounded Bucky forcing him down to his knees so they could hand cuff him tightly.

Katie and Sam raised their hands in surrender as the soldiers approached them too. The mystery cat man was the last to comply retracting his claws and reaching up to his helmet.

“Call them off Rhodey.” Katie looked at him, nodding to the soldier who had his gun trained on her “We’ll come quietly.”

Rhodey turned to look at her and then nodded at the officer, who lowered his gun, but that didn’t stop them from handcuffing her. As she shot a look over her shoulder at the man who was slapping on the restraints she gave him a small smirk and then turned back to look at mystery cat man, just as he pulled off his mask.

“What the…” Katie frowned, recognising him instantly. It was T’Challa, the prince of Wakanda.

“Your highness.” Rhodey said.

There was a scuffle to Katie’s right and she turned to see that Bucky was being hauled to the floor.

“Don’t hurt him.” She turned to Rhodey, pleading with him. “Please. He saved my life, he’s still a human being!”

Rhodey hesitated slightly but then one of the soldiers shoved Katie in the back.

“Move.” he said in a thick accent.

“Say please.” She spun round, glaring at him. “Fucking asshole.”

“Katie.” Steve instructed gently as he walked towards her, being marched by two other soldiers. She turned to him and he gave a small shake of his head, warning her not to start another fight, before he nodded towards the black SUV.

“You know what the worse bit about all this is?” Katie sighed, as she fell into step beside Steve.

Steve looked at her, “No, what?”

“The lecture I’m going to get off Tony.”

One they had been stripped of their weapons and gear they were released from their handcuffs. Rubbing her wrists, Katie raised an eyebrow at Rhodey.

“Now what?” 

“You’ll be given chance to change and clean up before going to Berlin,” Rhodey said, as the side of the SUV they were by opened and they were instructed to climb in. “Where you’ll be put into the custody of the Anti-Terrorism Unit.”

“So we’re terrorists now?” Katie snorted.

“You knew what would happen if you went against the law.”

She gave a sarcastic, fake yawn and behind her Sam sniggered before he looked at Rhodey

“This make you feel good?” Sam asked.

“Okay, enough!” Steve loudly shut down the petty squabble that was about to erupt between the two men “Yes, Rhodey we knew what would happen, but we also knew what would happen if we didn’t.”

“Oh yeah? And what’s that?”

“That you would never have taken him alive.” He nodded to where Bucky was being hauled into the back of a separate vehicle. “And you know that too.”

******

“So you like cats?”

“Sam.” Steve scolded as Katie snorted, looking out of the window of the SUV as they drove over a bridge that crossed the River Spree. T’Challa was on the front row of the SUV alone, then Steve and Katie had sat on the middle, Sam on the back row.

“What?” Sam asked innocently. “Dude shows up dressed like a cat and you don’t wanna’ know more?”

Katie was inclined to agree, Steve however, was curious about something else.

“Your suit. It’s Vibranium?” He asked in interest.

“The Black Panther has been the protector of Wakanda for generations.” T'Challa began slowly. “A mantle passed from warrior to warrior. And now because your friend murdered my father, I also wear the mantle of king. So I ask you, as both warrior and king, how long do you think you can keep your friend safe from me?”

T'Challa turned his head to look Steve directly in the eye then turned back around without another word as Steve clenched his jaw.

They arrived at the CIA base in Berlin in record time thanks to the police convey that kept the streets clear. The base was crawling with heavily armed soldiers as they stepped out of the van and were led inside. Katie shrugged on her leather jacket, pausing as Bucky’s cage followed them being moved by a small forklift. Besides her Steve stiffened as he looked over at Bucky and Katie gently placed her hand on at the bottom of his back. Bucky looked at the pair of them before he turned away as he was taken off in a separate direction.

After an introduction of sorts to Thaddeus Ross (Sharon’s boss) they were informed their weapons would be placed in a lock up, prompting Sam to snarl angrily- “I better not look out the window and see anybody flying around in that.” They were then led over a walkway and Katie looked past Ross and saw a familiar redhead walking towards them. Natasha’s face was blank as she strode down the walkway.

“For the record.” She snapped as she looked at the three of them in turn before she focussed on Steve. “This is what making things worse looks like.”

“He’s alive.” Steve answered shortly, not looking at her as he walked past, his jacket flapping slightly, pulling Katie with him as his hand wrapped around hers.

Natasha just glared at him before she walked quicker, pulling ahead of the group as they reached a large security office. Natasha led the way in, and Katie instantly picked up as she could hear Tony’s voice from inside,

“The remaining of us are now at court-section.” He was saying. And as they entered she saw her brother standing in the centre of the office, talking into his phone with his back to the door as he added, “And, Colonel Ross is supervising the clean-up.”

Despite everything Katie felt a rush of relief, it good to see him, alive and okay after Vienna.

“Try not to break anything while we fix this.” Natasha snapped and Katie’s attention then turned from her brother to her friend and she shook her head.

“Ass kissing doesn’t suit you, Nat.”  

Tony turned to face them all, his face set in a deep frown as he barked into his phone, pulling at his tie to loosen it off. "Consequences? You bet there will be consequences.”

Steve raised his eyebrows slightly, glancing at Katie who rolled her eyes before she looked at Tony as he continued to talk “Obviously you can quote me on that because I just said it. Anything else? Thank you, sir.”

As he placed his phone back into his pocket, his eyes never left his sister. “You okay?” He asked and she nodded, stepping forwards into his arms, giving him a hug which he returned.

"Consequences?” Steve repeated with a smirk as Tony looked over Katie’s shoulder at him.

“Secretary Ross wants you three prosecuted.” Tony answered, stepping back and releasing Katie. “I had to give him something.” He added.

“I’m not getting that shield back, am I?” Steve asked in an almost monotone voice.

“Technically, it’s the government’s property.” Natasha replied cheerily. “Wings too.” She added.

“That’s cold.” Sam countered

“Warmer than jail.” Tony tossed over his shoulder, as he headed off somewhere.

“Stop being so melodramatic.” Katie rolled her eyes, and stuck her hands in the back pockets of her jeans as Natasha led them to an office, talking to them as she went, telling them about what had been going on. They walked in silence, none of them responding. Eventually they reached a glass walled office and stepped inside.

“You’re not in a very talkative mood I can see.” Natasha drawled as Katie dropped her jacket over the back of a chair.

“Hmmm what can we talk about? Let’s see.” Katie looked at her, her face angry. “Oh how about the Accords?” Natasha rolled her eyes as Katie continued with a tone of disdain. “You know, I never had you down as someone that would give in so easily to control.”

“Well sometimes we have to make some tough choices.”

“Why’d you really sign, Nat?“ Steve asked her.

She sighed leaning back on the door frame. “Loyalty. Loyalty to our team. Staying together is more important than how we stay together.”

Steve shook his head, giving a small snort of laughter. “I don’t agree, and deep down, I don’t think you do either.”

“Believe what you want.” She shrugged before leaving.

About half an hour later after the three of them had been brainstorming again who they thought was actually responsible for bombing the UN and trying to fit Bucky up (none of them having any sensible ideas whatsoever), Sam excused himself heading off in search of some food and drink and it wasn’t long before Tony walked into the office were Katie and Steve were sat, Katie’s feet resting in Steve’s lap, his hand sliding up the bottom of her jeans, stroking the smooth skin just above the line of her ankle boots.

“You wanna see something cool?” He asked. Katie and Steve both turned to look at him as he walked in, holding a small black case. “I pulled something from Dad’s archives.” He nodded, “Timely.”

Katie sat up as Tony tossed his suit jacket onto one of the empty seats before he opened the box and placed it down on the shiny, mahogany table in front of Steve.

"FDR signed the Land-Lease bills with these in 1941.” Tony explained what they were. “Provided support to the allies when they needed it the most.”

“Some would say it brought our country closer to war.” Steve countered, a humourless smile on his face as he looked back up at Tony.

Tony met Steve’s eyes evenly and countered with his own point, “See, if not for these, you wouldn’t be here.” Steve’s brow rose, while Tony continued, “I’m trying to, what do you call it? An olive branch. Is that what you call it?

He looked at Steve, leaning his face against his fist as he waited expectantly. Steve pursed his lips unhappily and Katie knew he was struggling and couldn’t tell Tony what he wanted to hear because he didn’t believe in it.

"Is Pepper here?” Katie asked, switching topics as she glanced around the office then added, “I didn’t see her.”

She looked back at Tony as a strange almost regretful look came over his face. Her brows furrowed in confusion as Tony said slowly, measured, “We are… kinda, well not kinda-”

“Pregnant?” Steve interrupted in surprise.

“No, definitely not.” Tony said immediately face souring slightly. He paused, before finally admitting the truth, “We’re taking a break. It’s nobody’s fault.”

“I’m so sorry, Tony.” Steve spoke softly as Katie looked at her brother, who took a seat at the table “I didn’t know.”

“What did you do this time?” Katie asked gently. She hated it when they rowed and broke up. It never lasted long but still…

Tony’s lips twitched like he was going to smile but didn’t, “Few years ago, I almost lost her, so I trashed all my suits. Then, we had to mop up HYDRA. And then Ultron,” he tapped himself in the chest, “my fault.” He sighed again. “And then, and then, and then- I never stopped. Cause the truth is, I don’t wanna stop but I don’t want to lose her. I thought maybe the Accords could split the difference.”

“In her defence, you are a handful.” Katie said, the corner of her mouth twitching upwards.

Tony smiled without it reaching his eyes as he stuffed his hands into his pockets, pacing a little by the glass walls, before he reached up to adjust his tie as he continued bitterly.

“Yet, dad was a pain in the ass, but he and mom always made it work.”

“You know, I never expected Howard would get married.” Steve said, fondly remembering his friend with a smile “Mind you, I only knew him when he was young and single.”

“Oh really?” Tony asked sarcastically as he looked back at Steve. “You two knew each other? He never mentioned that. Maybe only a thousand times.”

Steve winced, dropping his head and while Tony picked up his suit jacket. “God, I hated you.” He spat pulling the jacket on.

“That’s a dick thing to say, Tone!” Katie frowned, narrowing her eyes at her brother.  

Steve sighed, and he looked back at Tony with sad eyes, “I don’t mean to make things difficult.”

“No, you just dropped into my life and married my sister.” Tony snorted “But you’re a very polite person. I mean you asked first.”

“That’s enough.” Katie chastised as Tony walked behind Steve, pacing a little. Steve turned to keep his eyes on him as he sighed

“If I see a situation pointed south, I can’t ignore it. Sometime I wish I could.”

“No, you don’t.” Tony challenged

Steve paused, before he admitted with a small, wry smile shaking his head a little, “No, I don’t.” He sighed, “Sometimes-”

“Sometimes I wanna punch you in your perfect teeth.” Tony interrupted bitterly. He shrugged like it was a fact, before he added softly, “but I don’t wanna see you gone. We need you, Cap.”

Steve stared at Tony as he considered his words, Katie observing the two of them silently as Tony continued “So far, nothing’s happened that can’t be undone, if you just sign.” He gestured at the pens, “We can make the last twenty-four hours legit. Barnes gets transferred to an American psych centre instead of a Wakanda prison.”

Steve stared at the pens, weighing Tony’s words before he reached out, pulling one slowly from its holder. Tony folded his arms across his chest as Steve stood up playing with the pen in his hands.

“I’m not saying it’s impossible,” he took a deep breath, “but there would have to be safeguards, what do you think, Sweetheart?” He looked at Katie. He was trying here, after everything, to reach the middle ground. He didn’t want to see the Avengers split up and the opportunity of keeping Bucky out of jail and safe was one he couldn’t pass up.

Katie looked at him, searching his face. She hadn’t been completely opposed to some form of sanctions after all, what she had opposed vehemently was a set being force upon them which gave them no control. But maybe, as Steve pointed out, with some amendments, perhaps they could make this work.

“We need to be able to have some control Tony, a say in where we go, when we go and why we go.” Katie eventually looked at her brother. “We’re not to be used as some pawns in a political game, for anyone’s agenda.”

“Sure.” Tony was quick to assure. “Once we put out the PR fire, its documents, they can be amended.” Tony sat back down at the table “I’d file a motion to have you and Wanda reinstated and-.“

"Wanda?” Katie cut him off and looked at him. “What about Wanda?”

“She’s fine.” Tony promised, although wariness leaked into his tone because he knew he had just put his foot in it. “She’s confined in the compound currently. Vision’s keeping her company.”

“Oh God, Tony!” Katie groaned and threw her head backwards in exasperation and disbelief.

At the same time Steve scoffed and shook his head. “Every time. Every time I think you’re seeing things the right way-”

"What?” Tony cut in, “It’s a hundred acres with a lap pool. It’s got a screening room. Trust me, there’s worse ways to protect people.”

“Protection?” Steve repeated, his temper rising. “Is that how you see this? This is protection? It’s internment.”

“She’s not a US citizen-” Tony spoke loudly while Steve and Katie groaned again

“Oh, come on, Tony!”  Katie shook her head, looking at him.

“- and they don’t grant visas to Weapons of Mass Destruction.” Tony finished taking a deep breath

“Wanda’s a kid!” Steve spat out.

“Give me a break!” Tony shouted back angrily.

Katie’s eyes narrowed furiously, but Tony took another deep breath as he visibly tried to calm himself down,

“I’m doing what has to be done,” He paused to look Steve in the eye before he turned to his sister and finished flatly. “To stave off something worse.”

She shook her head and grit her teeth, there was no discussing with him when he was like this, and if he couldn’t see that keeping Wanda on house arrest because she hadn’t signed was wrong then she didn’t really want to discuss it with him anyway.  "You keep telling yourself that.” She answered.

"Hate to break up the set.” Steve dropped the pen back down onto the desk before he left the office.

Katie groaned and banged her head on the desk.

“Kiddo…”

“Just don’t.” She replied, not looking up. “Don’t say a word Tony, you’ve already said enough.”

****

“The receipt for your gear.”  Sharon walked into the room, handing Sam a piece of paper.

Sam took the paper, glancing down at it. “'Bird costume’? Come on, girl.” He spat incredulously reading the receipt.

“I didn’t write it.” Sharon shot back and Katie raised a brow as she watched the woman, noticing her movements, before she reached past Sam and pressed a button in the middle of the conference table. Instantly the audio from the footage they were watching of Bucky’s questioning flooded the room and Steve looked at Sharon in surprise and she nodded back to him. Katie also gave her a look of appreciation as well and Sharon averted her eyes beyond the conference room. Katie followed her gaze and saw Natasha looking furtively over her shoulder. Katie nodded to Nat, understanding instantly she’d had a hand in this. Nat inclined her head slightly before she turned back around to watch her own set of screens.

“I’m not here to judge you. I just want to ask you a few questions. Do you know where you are, James?” The man in the cage gave no response so the doctor tried again. “I can’t help you if you don’t talk to me, James.”

“My name is Bucky.” Bucky answered voice rough, a hint of defiance in his tone.

Steve’s lips pursed, and he turned back to the table with a frown. He picked up the discarded file, pulling out the Vienna security camera photos that showed the man the task force identified as Bucky from near the bomb site.

“Why would the task force release this photo to begin with?” Steve asked handing the picture over to Katie, as she perched on the table beside him.

Sam frowned, while Sharon shrugged and answered the best way she could, “Get the word out, involve as many eyes as we can?”

“Right.” Steve said flatly nodding but it wasn’t enough for him. Katie cottoned on instantly.

“It’s a good way to flush a guy out of hiding. Set off a bomb, get your picture taken.” She shrugged and Sam’s eyes narrowed as he leaned forward on his arms, while Steve continued for her.

“Suddenly you’ve got seven billion people looking for the Winter Soldier.”

“You’re saying someone framed him to find him.” Sharon asked slowly, summarizing their point.

“Steve, we looked for the guy for two years, and bar when he pulled your Missus out of that Hydra base, we found nothing.” Sam pointed out.

“We didn’t bomb the UN.” Katie answered. “That turns a lot of heads.”

“Yeah.” Sharon joined in quietly, “but that doesn’t guarantee that whoever framed him would get him, it guarantees that we would…”

She trailed off as all 4 of them shared an understanding glance.

Steve turned around sharply to look back at the screen showing Bucky and the UN psychiatrist, before he muttered "Yeah.” Someone had brought him here for a reason. Who, and why?

“Tell me Bucky.” The man interrogating Bucky continued on. “You’ve seen a great deal, haven’t you?”

“I don’t want to talk about it.” Bucky answered flatly keeping his response short.

“You feel that, if you open your mouth, the horrors might never stop. Don’t worry.” He tapped at his screen “We only have to talk about one.”

The building suddenly went dark, the power going out leaving on the emergency red lights flashing ominously. Katie hopped off the table and Steve turned urgent eyes on Sharon.

“Sub-level five, east wing.” She answered the silent question quickly.

Steve looked at Sam and he nodded then the three of them ran out of the office, using the distraction of the power outage to their advantage as they raced down the stairs to get to the level Bucky was on.

They ran down two flights of stairs before they finally reached the hallway that led to Bucky’s holding room. Steve stopped when they reached the last corridor and spotted the guards lying on the ground. He glanced back to exchange looks with Katie and Sam as they both came to a stop behind him. Now wary of what they were walking into, and highly conscious that none of them had any weapons, they made their way cautiously down the corridor. Katie bent down to check the fallen soldiers. One had a strong pulse, the other…

“He’s dead.” She muttered looking up. Steve let out a sigh of frustration and moved into the security room besides the cell, Sam and Katie close behind.  

The further into the room they went the more dead soldiers they encountered when a sudden raspy voice came from in the room that held Bucky’s containment unit. “Help me.”

Steve looked ahead to see the man who had been interrogating Bucky, lying on his side by the empty cage, clutching his side as if in pain. Steve stomped into the room angrily, ignoring the man as he begged for help again.

“Get up.” He snapped reaching down to grab the man by the front of his jacket, hauling him to his feet. The man eyed him carefully as Steve glared shoving him into a wall and snarling. “Who are you? What do you want?”

The man met his gaze, his eyes becoming cold and dark as answered lowly, “To see an empire fall.”

A movement in the corner of the room caught Katie’s eye. Sam and her ducked just in time as the Winter Soldier leapt from where he had been lurking in the shadows, throwing a punch towards Katie. He missed, hitting the concrete doorway and punching a hole through the rock.

Sam acted quickly, punching at the Winter Soldier’s side, but it didn’t even faze the super-solider as he punched Sam straight in the stomach. Sam winced, and doubled over as the Winter Soldier grabbed his chin in his metal hand, throwing him across the room. He then turned his attention to Katie, and she knew that throwing punches wasn’t going to work so all she could do was duck, using her agility to keep out of his way. She bent backwards as he made to grab her but then Steve ran at him, ducking as the Winter Soldier swung his arm out. Once the metal arm passed over his head, Steve threw a punch of his own, hitting the Soldier right in the face, and the man snarled as he swung his fist back at Steve, who dodged it. The Winter Soldier suddenly kicked out, landing a solid kick right to Steve’s stomach and Steve grunted as he was thrown backwards, landing in the security room.

The Winter Soldier strode towards him but Steve was already back on his feet and blocked the next kick with his bare hands. Katie was powerless to help; she had nothing on her, no stingers, no guns no Supernova suit. She frantically searched the room for something she could use as a weapon as the pair of super soldiers continued to fight, throwing kicks and punches while parrying and blocking the other’s moves, heading back out into the corridor. As Steve fell through the doorway again, Katie grabbed the cable she was holding and launched herself at the Winter Soldier jumping onto his back and wrapping the cable around his neck. He spun round angrily, grabbing at the cable before he reached up with his metal arm and grabbed the back of her hair, flipping her up and over before flinging her across the room at Steve who had pulled himself up against the elevator doors. Steve grunted as he caught her but quickly set her on her feet before shoving her out of the way just in time, as the Winter Soldier threw his whole weight into a punch to Steve’s chest, blowing him straight through the metal doors and down the elevator shaft.

Katie kicked at the desk in front of her, sending it The Soldier’s way as he was now advancing on her, but he broke through it easily, not even slowing in the slightest. She dodged under his arm and aimed a kick at the side of his knee, catching him perfectly and he stumbled forward. She then went to kick him again but he raised his metal arm to take the brunt of it, catching her leg so it was trapped between his arm and chest.

“Bucky this isn’t you.” Her words meant nothing to him. He grabbed a handful of her shirt with his other hand lifting her and tossing her like a rag doll straight into the wall where she banged her head painfully, causing her to see stars. She lay still for a while, dazed but and then she heard Sam shout

“Hey. You alright?”

“I think so.” She blinked groggily as Sam gently helped her to her feet. Everything seemed to work.

“C'mon,” He urged, heading towards the stairs “That so called doctor just left.”

Before Katie could head up the steps after him, a grunt caught her attention, it was Steve, minus his jacket, climbing his way out of the elevator shaft covered in dirt and sweat and looking far more attractive than he had any right to be in the middle of a damned fight.

“You okay?” He questioned only slightly out of breath from the climb, his hand dropping to his wife’s neck

“Yeah.”

“Bucky?”

“He went that way.” She pointed to the corridor on the left. "Back out to the facility. The doctor, he went the other way, Sam’s gone after him”

Steve quickly nodded. “I’ll get Bucky. You go after Sam and I’ll meet you outside.”

No further discussion was had as they split up.  By the time Katie emerged into the lobby of the facility, it was utter chaos where employees were all crushed together rushing to get out the doors and get to safety.

“Sam, any sign?” She asked as she found him outside looking round.

“No, come on.” He grabbed her hand so that they didn’t lose each other in the crowd as they moved outside the building. Sam stopped to pick up a discarded jacket that he recognised as belonging to the Fake Doctor, and Katie glanced down at it before looking around the crowd. There was no sign of him. It was then that she heard a chopper and instantly glanced up to the top of the building where a helicopter was attempting to take off. But the two-hundred plus pounds of super-solider hanging onto the landing skids was not letting go that easy. He kept hold as the helicopter dragged him to the edge, his boots skidding on the Heli-pad before he reached the end. Gritting his teeth he clung onto the skids of the helicopter with one hand, the other onto the railing of the building.

“No way.” Sam shook his head as he and Katie stood looking up at Steve who was stopping the helicopter “No goddamned way.”

The blades of the helicopter spun rapidly but it was going nowhere as Steve switched his grip on the railing. His muscles bulged and felt like they were on fire but he didn’t let go and, with a pained grit of his teeth, he pulled even harder and felt it start to come back to him. Then, it did a sharp turn towards Steve and he dived out of the way as it came to a stop. He stood up, made his way to the door but before he could do anything Bucky’s metal fist smashed through the glass on the door and gripped him round his neck. Steve planted both his feet on the side of the chopper, trying to release himself from the grip but it was no use.

And then the helicopter began sliding.

Katie’s grip tightened around Sam’s hand as they spotted Steve’s figure still attached to the helicopter as it fell from the top of the building and into the lake below. She instantly rushed forwards, but Sam wrapped both arms around her waist to restrain her, stopping her from diving head first into the water after him. 

Not again, she kept thinking to herself, the scenes from the last time him and Bucky had entered the water flashing before her eyes.

She hadn’t realised she was yelling until Sam shouted loudly, and pointed across the water, where a head had broken the surface. Steve was dragging Bucky up beside him. They rushed to the edge of the lake where Steve made sure they got Bucky out first before he hauled himself up beside them, water dripping onto the concrete.

Sam turned his attention to Bucky making sure he was only unconscious and still breathing, while Katie’s focus turned to her husband. The anger at him being a stupid, reckless moron again boiled over.

“Are you out of your fucking mind?” She screamed, before she reached back and slapped him hard across the face.  It was enough to make his head snap to the right.

“Ouch.” Sam muttered.

Steve looked at Katie, astonishment and maybe a hint of amusement on his face, before she threw herself into his arms, not caring that he was soaking wet, whilst as he wrapped his arms around her.

“You stupid…” Katie began to sob, her voice muffled as she pressed her face into his wet shirt and his hands tangled in her hair.

“I know, I know.” He muttered. “I’m sorry, Doll.” He dropped a soft kiss to her head before he gently moved her to the side and looked at Sam before nodding to the unconscious Bucky on the floor. “Let’s get out of here.”

**** Chapter 31

**Original Posting**

[ladyeliot]

The nearness of you. Chapter Two [B.B]

When she met him masterlist

All of me. Chapter One

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Female Reader [Michelle]

Summary: While you try to live a new life in West Berlin, forgetting your past, the Winter Soldier can't forget you as he carries out his missions.

Warnings: Murder. Mentions of violence. 

Word count: 3075

A/N:  Sorry for my spelling and grammatical mistakes, English is not my native language, I am learning.

West Berlin, June 1954

The last few weeks had been the ideal of aspiration that any girl would wish to live in her youth. That was the phrase you symptomatically repeated to yourself every morning when you woke up and looked at yourself in the mirror. However, Berlin was not a paradise to start fulfilling your dreams, let alone to start a life as a couple. The fact that you had been hanging around the most select and exquisite clubs in the area did not take away the fact that it was an occupied city after a world war that had lasted 6 years and 1 day, and that it had to be shared with the opposite side. The images of the chinks in the conflict that appeared before your eyes every morning made an impression on you. You had barely been living in Germany for a month and you felt that your work was minimal compared to that of other women.

You looked calmly at your hands, especially that finger that you had thought would contain a ring a couple of weeks ago, when you had celebrated your birthday together. However, that moment never came and you began to question whether you were really playing the right role in your life. There was no lack of champagne, no lack of jewellery, no lack of kisses, no lack of nights of passion, so you told yourself that there was nothing to worry about. Moreover, on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean, things were moving forward without you present, for every week your dear friend Nancy would update you on your mother and Charles, to whom she had definitely become engaged. At such a discovery your emotions clashed in a battle of happiness and anger, happiness for the fact that two of the most important people in your life had found love, and anger for several reasons, the first being that you had not been present with them and the second that you had not been able to share the same news yourself. On the other hand, you had barely been able to maintain contact with your mother. You had assumed that the pain your departure had caused her was terrible for her, and it was acceptable that she did not want to answer your calls. The situation made you feel sick inside, imagining having lost her husband in Europe because of the war, and now having lost her daughter because of your departure to Germany, it was logical how bitter her mother must have been.

"... one of the most charming and talented voices to settle in this city", Richard's voice sounded in the distance.

You lifted your gaze which had become lost in your own thoughts and with a falsely unfounded joy you took a puff on your cigarette and smiled at each of your partner's friends sitting around you. Like every night, it was your turn to be present at Richard's long, boring meetings. Occasionally you could count on some female company, probably a companion of one of the generals, who at most talked banalities with you, but that night there was only male company.

"Darling, I think I'll retire to my room," you whispered in his ear, hoping to get rid of the atmosphere as soon as possible.

"Would you like me to join you?" he asked, instantly stubbing out his cigarette.

"Oh, don't bother," you got up from your seat and grabbed the sling. "I just want to take a hot bath and get into bed to rest," you placed your lips on his. "Enjoy your night."

"Okay, sweetheart," he kissed you again.

The racket that broke out as your figure walked away from the table reached your ears.

It was inevitable that your thoughts of guilt would arise in situations like these, when loneliness found you and you were in a world of your own. You had faced complicated experiences throughout your life, which were only forgotten when you got on stage and managed to express all your feelings in those lyrics. The music comforted you, it showed who you really were.

As you got into the lift you closed your eyes, waiting for that moment when your feet would rest bare on the carpet of the room, your dress would show your nakedness and your body would get into the hot water of the bathtub. But the only thing you felt when you dropped into the warmth of the bathtub were those blue eyes staring at you from afar, sitting on the bar of the 'Central Club'.

For as long as you can remember, every time you prostrated yourself before a stage and a large crowd, you were curious to discover what the many gazes before you were hiding. What were they hiding? What were their lives like? Each one of them was different, each one of them expressed a series of feelings and hid others. However, that one left a trace in you. It was not at all difficult to find him night after night in the crowd, he always occupied the same seat, he always disappeared after the first song, but there he was night after night, watching you, captivating you from the left flank of the hall. He wore the uniform of a private in the American army, you had made up your own story about him, maybe he was a soldier, he had just been sent to Germany from Kansas, his father had fought in the Battle of the Atlantic and you wanted to honour him. Whatever his story was, you wanted to discover it and you knew that nothing could stop you.

Meanwhile, elsewhere in Berlin.

For the past couple of weeks his mission had been to maintain contact with the west side of Berlin, while remaining unnoticed by the soldiers and officers, both American and British, who had been sitting in the western part of the German city. His procedure had changed, however, and a departure from the other days was about to take place. His knowledge of the area was almost self-evident, he knew their most frequented locations, as well as the connections of the officers and superiors of both nations. He knew their activities and which of them had the most to lose and deserved the most, so it could be said that the orders given to the soldier had been carried out with high expectations and HYDRA knew it.

The young private was walking through the streets of the village, the sun was beating down, but there was still life in the village. A group of children no more than eight years old were hiding in the barricade of wooden crates he had formed, the soldier passed them and at that very moment they rose to shoot him with an imaginary weapon they held in their hands. Their feet stopped and a stern glance was automatically directed at them, who soon fled in terror at the gesture. Those impassive blue eyes turned back to the front to continue on their way to the Concordia Hotel club, mostly known for its variety shows offered to a purely male audience.

Like every Wednesday night, the main lounge was open to British and American soldiers, where alcohol was drunk and poker games were played until the early hours of the morning. It was casual to find men from the upper echelons mixed in the crowd, for they were the main procurers of the fortunes at stake on those nights. The soldier entered with little trouble, marking his territory by looking around, hoping to find someone who would capture his full attention, but he never arrived. He knew she was staying there, he had seen her come and go on more than one occasion with the expensively dressed civilian.

In the centre of the stage a girl in full figure-hugging clothes was trying to attract the attention of the men in the room, but he was hardly interested in her. He approached the bar and ordered a brandy, waiting for the right moment to carry out his mission. The stuffy atmosphere, especially the smoke from the cigarettes and cigars, made him sick, he could hardly focus his attention on the figures seated around the tables, and the noise didn't make it any easier either. A British sergeant he had met a couple of nights ago raised his hand to salute him from across the room, but he gave him a slight nod and remained seated there.

As the minutes, and later the hours, passed, he came to the conclusion how alcohol can really affect a person's physical and mental capacity. He discovered it not with himself, but with those people he had not ceased to contemplate. To her right, almost to the exclusion of the crowd, was a round table of British officers and only one gentleman, not in uniform, was her partner.

"Gentlemen, you know I cannot give you the answer you seek," laments came from the mouths of the three British officers. "What kind of a man would I be if I revealed one of my beautiful partner's many qualities?

"Come on Miller, who are you kidding?" asked a dark-haired officer as he took a puff on his cigar. "That I've known you for years."

The four of them burst into laughter at the same time, still keeping their cards hidden. In the centre of the table stood a large amount of bets they had been placing throughout the night, and the soldier did not know where they had come from.

"You really have brought with you the woman with the most beautiful lips in all of New York," asked one of the participants. "What are your plans for her? Will she last longer than the last one? What was her name? Astrid?"

"No, that was Rebecca, the one with the lush breasts," the third in discord added to the conversation. "Now that was a woman, her gifts did not go unnoticed."

Again they laughed at the same time. At that moment the soldier, still seated in front of the mud, took a sip of his second drink of the night.

"To tell you the truth, I think my fortune has come with her," said the out-of-uniform civilian as he took a letter, "and I mean in many respects. It's inevitable not to recognise the charm in her voice, I think she has a lot of talent and I think she has possibilities."

"Of her talents there is no doubt," the jocular tone was apparent among his companions providing amusement to the matter again. "Were you the first to discover them, Richard?"

"What do you think, Alfred?" the man pulled his cigarette away from his lips and arched an eyebrow, creating suspense among his friends. "A young girl, a New Yorker, an only child, from a good family, who had just been accepted to NYU and hadn't left the city. I think that's more than obvious.

The dark-haired officer delivered a blow to the back of Richard, who seemed to feel as if he had just deposited a decoration on his chest. Out of the corner of his eye, the soldier was watching the scene to his right, impassively concentrating on his newly refilled brandy snifter. His jaw stiffened at the words that came in a steady stream through his ears.

"Miller, don't tell us about his life, you know what we're interested in," reacted one of the members. "I didn't remember you being so haughty, perhaps the trip to America has taken its toll.

"Dear Arthur, just tell me what you wish to hear and I will fulfil your requests," the gentleman jokingly replied as he stubbed out his cigarette. "You know I would never let you down," he said.

"Don't say that twice." Alfred laughed, taking a card from the deck.

"Alright," he nodded lighting a new cigarette which he took out of the box. "Let's start with her lips, since you mentioned them. If what you really want to know is the way her virgin lips run over every part of me, I must tell you that you would never think that those red lips had ever rested on anyone."

The soldier clenched his metal fist, which was kept hidden under a glove, as he surprised himself by remembering the image of those lips within earshot of the microphone a couple of weeks ago. The conversation became increasingly coarse until it reached a point where he was explaining in detail the gestures and sounds the young woman made at her moment of pleasure. The soldier clenched his jaw tighter in anger at those words, at that very moment a cracking sound was heard in front of him and a burning sensation began to emerge in the palm of his hand. It took him a few moments to realise that the force exerted by his fingers had caused the glass of the cup to fracture and cut his skin. He hardly said anything about the situation, nor did the waiter notice, as the number of people in the room kept him somewhat busy.  He removed the glass embedded in his own flesh and took a handkerchief from his pocket and wrapped it around his hand.

Not more than ten minutes passed when two of the latent officers in the poker game rose to their defeat, so after saying goodbye they continued on their way to the exit door. The soldier hid from them with his back to them and with a sea of doubts in his mind, for he desired more the prey that lay before his eyes still seated at that round table, the one called Richard. Nevertheless, he decided not to reject this good opportunity offered by destiny, so he walked briskly after them, hiding both hands in his trouser pockets. Outside there was a placid relief after two hours in the dreary hall, the officers stood on the pavement in front of the roadway waiting, presumably, for a car to come for them. The soldier mimicked the gesture, but always keeping a few feet away.

"If I told you the number of times it had crossed my mind to smash his face in, you couldn't count them on your own hands," the brown-haired British officer nodded as he listened.

"Don't worry Arthur, I don't think you'll be the first or even the last one to think that."

Yellow headlights approached from the far side of the road, it was barely midnight, yet it was not a very busy area. The car stopped in front of the door, and both gentlemen after finishing their cigarettes opened the doors and stepped inside. The soldier waited for both of them to take their seats and the car to start so he could carry out his mission, which was all tied up with threads, however the dark-haired man, before closing his own door, became aware of his presence.

"Hey, soldier!" he called out from his seat. "Do you want us to take you somewhere?"

The young man blinked slowly, taking in the information and processing it for his own benefit.

"Thank you very much colonel," he approached the car.

"Come on, get in the front and we'll drop you off wherever you say," the officer reported again, closing the back door.

The soldier thanked them again for the offer and informed them that he was going to a suburb of West Berlin. In those moments he was fascinated by the facilities that lay before him that night, after that moment when he thought he had lost his own control inside the premises. His mind worked quickly, making connections between the events that were generated and his orders offered by his superiors. He formulated a map of the route he was to follow according to the direction given, and waited five minutes until they reached one of the less crowded streets of the place. The officers were engaged in an unrelated conversation until they asked him about his fortune that night.

"I hope it gets better," said the soldier with hardly a hint of interest in his words.

"I take your words soldier, I have lost a great deal of money tonight," the dark-haired officer replied. "Though I suppose it would be better with a young lady by my side. Do you have one waiting for you?"

"Not my priority sir," he argued.

Both occupants laughed at this response, and began to talk to each other again, leaving him aside, which he was grateful for, as he had to keep all his senses focused on the road. He watched the driver out of the corner of his eye, inspecting his every move, and then noted that there were only a few yards to go before they reached their destination.

Darkness fell over them, for they had left the city centre behind them, and there was barely a glimmer of light on the street. Before them lay a new paradigm that the soldier had forged in his head to carry out his mission. The road became narrower, with a series of curves that brought their journey to an end. Cold sweat broke out on every part of his body, as the thunderous laughter inside the car rumbled in his head. He looked to his left at the driver who barely seemed to realise what was about to happen, his full attention was drawn to his hands, which were gripping the steering wheel tightly, and then he looked down at his own, one of them wrapped in a bloody handkerchief and the other of them under a black glove. He hid his wounded hand in his pocket, for he did not wish to leave any marks on the spot, while with the other in a flash he brought it to the driver's neck, causing him to run out of air on the spot. He quickly hit his right leg, which gave him an increase in speed, and then swerved, sending the car crashing into the face of a ruined building.

The sensation he felt in that millisecond was unheard of, but it was the first of many that he would come to feel and that decades later would barely let him sleep.

Taglist Open (DM)

MAIN MASTERLIST

[siriusist]

Top ten favorite things and least favorite things about the Spanish Princess. GO.

Okay, this is definitely not going to be a top ten anything, considering I’m only three episodes in, but:

Things I Appreciate About the Spanish Princess (the first three episodes):

The depiction of Spain as a diverse country full of different cultures, peoples, and religions.

Having black characters as main characters on the show, especially since so much of continental Europe DID have a close history with black people/POC, either from Africa, people who were descendants from freed people from from the Roman Empire, or from the near East.

The comment on the differences of bathing habits between 16th century England and the rest of Europe. A lot of what we did know about basic cleanliness is tracked more in 16th century texts from Italy and Germany, but it would be expected that Spain would follow suit. Washing hands before meals was a thing, as well as washing hands and face in the morning. Although it’s obviously after the timeline of the Spanish Princess and a neighbouring country, there are ‘Travel Tales’ from the early 1600s which state that Germans “strew Pine Leaves powder’d, and all sorts of Herbs and Flowers upon the Floor; which, together with the Lye make a very agreeable Scent.”There is a scented lye-based soap recipe in The treasurie of commodious conceits, & hidden secrets by John Partridge (1573). So cleanliness WAS a thing for the rest of Europe, probably more so than England, and I appreciated that getting a low-key shoutout.

The weird-ass superiority of England despite the fact that it actually WAS in a precarious situation financially and politically at the time, which in retrospect, is pretty laughable considering what other empires (including Spain) were on its horizon.

The fact that we get to see a young and beautiful Catherine of Aragorn, because usually in English-language films we see her as some old bat tucked away with her religious fanatic daughter who’s basically a thorn in the side of Anne Boleyn and not her own person who probably was at that time more valuable of a “catch” than Henry or Arthur was to her.

Dumbass ladies in waiting hooking up with married dumbass English lords because we all know that was a thing that happened.

Things That Annoy the FUCK Out of Me About The Spanish Princess (the first three episodes):

The fact that Queen Isabella is portrayed as this badass warrior queen instead of someone who basically gave the Jews four months to GTFO of Spain and it took hundreds of years for Jewish people to return there. WAHAY FORCED DIASPORA.

That despite there being some historical record that Christopher Colombus shmoozed with the best of them (Especially in sucking up to Queen Isabella for money for his travels), there’s something inherently problematic of portraying him as a weirdly paternal figure considering, you know, history. Even though it would make sense for him to be weirdly suck-y to Catherine because he got the money for his travels from her family, just being like OH HO HO HE GAVE HER A TRINKET TO “GUIDE HER HOME” as a weird historical character drop and so far not mentioning him ever again is a bit cringe.

Queen Elizabeth actually from all accounts was super chill and nice to Catherine- at least, up to the point Arthur died. So it’s a bit odd that she has this weird low-key rivalry with her considering her husband acknowledged her beauty, which she basically low-key trapped him into saying on the show. Cause, ya know. WOMEN. AM I RIGHT.

I mean, it’s a Star show. So I know there’s going to be unnecessary sexual tension and nudity. But the unnecessary sexual tension and nudity.

Speaking of the unnecessary sexual tension and nudity- the fact that they aged King Henry the Eighth up from an eleven year old to an annoying ass douchebro to make some forced story about how he sexed Catherine up in the historical equivalent of slipping into his brother’s DMs- Ew. ALL the ew.

Also the fact that even if they HAD aged him up, even in his early twenties historically pretty much no one had a bad word to say about young Henry- he was literally considered a renaissance man. Chivalrous and kind. We all know what he turned into- but it would have been so much better to have him be that in the first place instead of people just telling us he’s truly artistic and has a ‘heart of a poet’ when he’s literally doing the Tudor version of swapping sex DMs with his friends. Ew.

Also even the fact that sex was discussed early in Tudor England by virtue of the fact that everyone had to care about procreation ten times earlier and would actually sometimes do what Margaret Pole does in this episode and listened to the door to make sure they were actually doing something is very true. What is NOT true is that even in Tudor England, would be an eleven year old listening in on his brother. Not unless even by Tudor standards, that was a weird-ass family.

Oh, and the fact that Henry could freely send off communication if presumably despite the actor looking 26 he was supposed to be under Arthur’s age who was 15 when he died? Like, sorry. I don’t care if you’re the prince of the realm- you got some shit to say- some courtier is going to check it twice. Especially if you’re 14 if we’re fucking with ages already.

Any time it reads like a gratuitous shirt off/layers off scene. Like, did Lina REALLLLLY need her layers pulled off seductively and a shot of her legs randomly for like, three seconds too long? REALLLLY?

Also I know I’m going to rage at the shirtless leather pant scene of Henry already coming up, and I haven’t even come up to episode four. Because Henry the Eighth, as we ALL know, was secretly Jim Morrison from The Doors.

OH AND LAST THING- The fact that Arthur and Catherine consummated their marriage at all? Like, I know its a Star show, so they’re going to go for sex over not, but the whole basis of the tension and the creation of a fucking CHURCH was that they weren’t sure if she’d consummated her relationship with Arthur, Henry assumed she did when it was convenient for him, and then his marriage was considered impure and invalid, because he lay with his brother’s wife. It would have been so much better if we still didn’t know if they lay together either way, because then we as the audience would be guessing along with them. But Star can’t turn down a superfluous sex scene am I right.

LAST LAST THING: Isn’t Keening a Gaelic/Irish thing historically?

I’ll stop now.

[illuminatvm]

INTRODUCE YOURSELF

Hello! I’m V, she/her, 25, EST, aquarius sun with an aries moon and rising. dumb as hell, illiterate as fuck. hobbies include buying books and never reading them, crying over the fact that i can't travel right now, and being consistently inconsistent with a hyperfixation.

DESCRIBE YOURSELF AS A WRITING PARTNER

oooh! okay, so i like to think i’m pretty laid back but that’s when i’ve gotten through all the nitty gritty of plotting. I love figuring out details and timelines, trading headcanons back and forth and really digging deep into a character and pushing their morals and beliefs and connections to others. I’m also a hoe for the aesthetique and love sending off musing inspo or instagram posts and quizzes between heart-wrenching angst. My writing style tends to veer towards the introspective prose at its best and at its most direct will focus on actions instead— which makes sense when my favourite threads to write are either emotionally harrowing or big fight scenes.

WHO ARE YOUR CHARACTERS?

𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐚 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐳𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡

Faded mauve and golden gray // a soft voice in a nearly-gone memory // perfectly made earl gray tea // long-gone chateaus and gilded walls // heavy silk and creamy marble // eyes so blue you’ll drown // the safest you’ve felt in years // curated clutter // chiffon cake and pearls // peony-fragile wings // breathless laughter // subtle power // smiles are merely animals baring their teeth

Species: guardian angel

Age: Appears to be in her early/mid-thirties, dates back to the 1400’s

Occupation: real estate developer. 1% for the planet board member. LVMH shareholder

Spoken languages: The better question is, what language does she not know?

Current place of residence: a penthouse suite in downtown seattle

Time in Seattle: 10 years

𝐅𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐲 𝐀𝐲ş𝐞𝐠ü𝐥 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐥

welcome to the club // deep crimson and glittering gold // the overwhelming ache of melancholia // neon lights and leather jackets // a life in the shadows // golden rings twisting with worry // sharp eyeliner or none at all // longing to belong // lithe hands of creation // more blankets than you need // starlight is the best light // half-truths and sharp knives // laughter that shakes your being // not dead yet barely alive

Species: shadow-graced

Age: 28. became shadow-graced at 24.

Occupation: jeweler. small-business owner

Spoken languages: English, Turkish, Italian  

Current place of residence: apartment in capitol hill

Time in Seattle: four years

𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐳𝐨 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐢

half-finished lattes // black t-shirts // empty mirrors // cracked book bindings // piles of coffee beans // hair pomade // lingering hugs // tired eyes // chocolate fondue // cloud couches // a labyrinth in human-form // a smoke filled chest // mulberry and cedar // old leather // messy hair // a watch glinting in the light // wolfish grins // early mornings and late nights // commanding attention

Species: vampire

Age: appears to be in mid-thirties. At the age of 35. Born in 1820.

Occupation: owner of Regime du Matin, independent bookstore + cafe

Spoken languages: English, Italian, French, German, Russian  

Current place of residence: top floor of Regime du Matin

Time in Seattle: two years

PLOT IDEAS / WANTED CONNECTIONS

Annora’s plot/wanted dynamics page

Feray’s plot/wanted dynamics page (coming tonight, i’m just being finicky)

Carmine’s plot/wanted dynamics page

PRESENT HEADCANONS

𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐚

To have lived for so long is both a blessing and curse. She remembers when palaces were built and bitterly recalls wars, can never hide the regret upon her features when she thinks of the fall of kingdoms and losses of beauty and majesty and brilliant minds. Devotion, steadfastness has matured, has evolved in the modern world and so too has Annora. Nowadays, you might see her working not merely to protect the people, but the place they inhabit. Technology and the divine have never been meant to mingle, but within her limits she involves herself with innovation— for the good of humanity. Of course, she is careful to remain in certain obscurity. Annora Leigh to mortals is a name forgettable and a face hardly seen. The world can not be saved by a single guardian angel, but she has not lived for so long that she can not try.

She likes to be busy, and she is. It isn’t uncommon for Annora to be in one city one day, then another the next. How she’s in Seattle continues to confuse the many as most of her real estate projects are on the eastern coast of the United States and Europe. But, she is here, and so far there are no signs of her leaving. An angel such as she isn’t so afraid of roaming the streets alone, not when her angelic lineage is so potent. If she isn’t working, she’s often volunteering, or spending time with those she considers her family— mortal or otherwise. If she could split herself into a legion, she could. Unfortunately, however, she is only one. Though that’s never quite stopped her from getting her way.

𝐅𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐲

She’d nearly died at the age of twenty-four while in London. In the years since, she and the entity she is bound to have settled here in Seattle, reverting to her birth-given name as she rediscovers herself in this new life, refining a new hobby of jewelry-making as she continues with a more quiet and subdued existence. Her workshop exists above the place where humans and supernatural-alike mingle, a club known for pleasure and indulgence. Lovers do no exist, friendships are distant if not fleeting. A love like her parents’ seems like an impossibility to her now. Her sins are her own, and watching love be wiped away by rage and betrayal was more than enough to cast herself away from the intimacy of knowing and being known. People couldn’t lose you, nor could you lose people if you weren’t present long enough for it to matter.

Though she lives in Capitol Hill, there are many days (and nights) that she’ll not stumble home until late. Her ties to the being that saved her from the brink of death are strangely pulled taut— so while her jewelry workshop (think brands like Sofia Zakia or Tippy Taste or Borcik Jewelry) and small storefront exists on the street level, an exclusive club of debauchery and sin exists below, its hours running until nearly dawn. Sometimes, you’ll find her posing as a bar girl, rarely will you see her indulging with or without the one who chose her for a life of the shadow-graced. But, she is loyal and indebted to them, and luckily in Seattle, everything is within arms reach.

𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞

Within him lies the great desire of perpetual warmth, and the ability to give that same warmth to others. That is what the cozy walls of his cafes evoke, what seeps from the man that seems wrapped in tarragon and cinnamon. No, he doesn’t have a girlfriend. Not when the last had left him so cold that he’d felt frozen from the inside out. The past few decades have been spent perfecting his craft, doing everything to feel warm and alive — from coffee, to spontaneous relocations, Carmine’s pursuit of never ending fire is never over. Perhaps there will be something, someone that will finally cause him to burn, to smolder brightly even in the light forever, something that’ll bring the restlessness within him to settle into sincere warmth. Or maybe he won’t, and he’ll lose his spark and suffer from an endless cold for the rest of his days.

Business as usual. The cafe caters to both humans and supernatural beings alike. However, humans only know of the main floor and upper two floors of the building. Supernatural creatures are able to access the two lower levels and the second-highest level of the cafe. Carmine lives on the uppermost floor, although all visitors have access to the roof. He’s far more content with his life here in Seattle than he assumed he would be. Although it’s largely in part to the environment he’s created for himself: not a bar, but a place to enjoy drinks and be with friends, curl up by a fire and get lost in a book that either you’d brought yourself or have pulled off of a shelf. He’s been known to be found lazing in the plush couches instead of returning to his own floor, but all staff members suggest you run when he picks up the guitar. The man has absolutely no musical talent. Please don’t ask him to sing.

DO YOU HAVE ANY INSPIRATIONS FOR YOUR MUSES 

𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐚'𝐬 𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝

𝐅𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐲'𝐬 𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝

𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞'𝐬 𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝

[fabianocolucci]

Language family VS Sphere of influence: comparing Europe with East Asia

I’m a student of East Asian languages and cultures at the university of Naples L’Orientale. Most specifically, I study everything about Japan and China, with standard Japanese and Mandarin Chinese as the center.

However, I am also an Italian who has been studying English since preschool and, during high school, got to learn more and more about Latin and Greek, which got me into my passion for languages.

In fact, Europe and East Asia are basically my biggest points of focus when it comes to language history, development and influence, and I love how we can see different aspects of these points.

For instance, what do we find in those regions, when it comes to languages?

EUROPE

The majority of Europe speaks a language from the Indo-European family. The only European countries where the main language does not belong in this family are Turkey and Azerbaijan (both languages are Turkic), Georgia (because Georgian is a Kartvelian language), Malta (their language derives from Arabic, and it’s the only Afro-Asiatic language among the official ones in the EU), Finland, Estonia and Hungary (their languages are Ugro-Finnic) and the Basque countries between Spain and France.

Excluding the Indo-Arian branch (where Persian, Hindi, Urdu and so on come from), the Indo-European languages are divided into:

Romance languages, the ones deriving from Latin. Main examples include Portugues, Spanish, Catalan, French, Occitan, Italian and Romanian;

Celtic languages, once spread throughout the continent, but now confined to the British Isles and the French region of Brittany. Gaelic Irish is even an official language in the European Union;

Albanian, Greek and Armenian form three branches on their own. Studies have tried to pair at least two of them together, but with little to no results;

Latvian and Lithuanian are Baltic languages, often paired with the next ones;

Slavic languages, spread throughout the majority of Eastern Europe. We can find Russian, Polish, Ukranian, Serbian, Bulgarian and many others here;

Germanic languages, the branch English belongs to. Other important languages in this branch are German, Dutch and the languages from the Nordic countries (except for Finnish);

Europe has had a common history and culture, even though there has always been some division between East and West, ever since the Roman empire, where you could divide it into Latin culture and Greek culture.

Therefore, it should not come off as a surprise that languages from different branches went on to influence eachother. The Balkan sprachbund is often used as a modern example, with Greek, Albanian, Bulgarian, Romanian and other languages sharing common aspects that aren’t found in other languages of their branches.

Another example is found with Germanic and Romance languages. Ever since the Barbarian invasions of Rome, those two branches have come in touch and started sharing vocabulary, features and similar aspects.

For instance, the word bank derives from the Italian banca, which in turn derives from banka, the Longobardian word for bench.

Also, before English was considered the “lingua franca” of the World, this role was filled by French, which inherited it from Latin (kinda like a father passing the torch to his son). As other idioms have now plenty of anglophone words, it makes sense that, back in the day, Romance vocabulary made its way to Great Britain.

Okay, now let’s see the situation in East Asia.

EAST ASIA

For millennia, China has been the central power of this region, which is why the East Asian Cultural Sphere is often called Sinic world.

Said sphere includes China, the Korean peninsula, the Japanese archipelago and Vietnam. And that’s where we can see the main difference with Europe, as those languages aren’t probably even related to eachother!

All varieties of Chinese, such as Mandarin and Cantonese, belong to the Sino-Tibetan family. Then, we have Vietnamese, which is an Austroasiatic language. Said family can be found scattered throughout South-East Asia.

As for Korean and Japanese, those two languages derive from the Koreanic and Japonic families respectively, even though there have been theories that may suggest that these two are related. One believes that Japanese descended from Korea, but the other sees those two groups as belonging to the huge Altaic family, which includes other groups and languages such as Turkish and Mongolian.

However, as for now, we don’t know yet if those theories can be proved right.

Now, despite that, those languages all shared the same writing system at some point.

Chinese characters are still used in Chinese-speaking countries, with the sole distinction of those using Traditional ones and those using the Simplified.

Korea did use them, but switched to the hangul alphabet. 

Vietnam still used them until about a century ago, but the huge rate of analphabetization meant a switch to the current variation of the latin alphabet they still use today.

Japan is the only other country that still uses characters, albeit alongside their two syllabaries, hiragana and katakana.

Chinese culture unified those countries to the point that a Westener could see them in a similar situation as Europe.

Now, let’s compare them.

A RELATIVE AND A MASTER?

When you compare English to a Romance language like Spanish, French or Italian, you may meet words that look and/or sound quite similar. However, there are two differences:

Some words are cognates, meaning that they originate from the same root. For instance, the Italian word for mother is madre;

Others are actually words that “jumped” from a branch to another. As I said earlier, English has plenty of Romance vocabulary, but the other way around is as usual;

In fact, you may compare Indo-European branches to relatives. Imagine you and a brother or a cousin of yours, and those traits you may share: how many of them derive from you two being from the same family? And how many are a consequence of the two of you constantly interacting with eachother?

Meanwhile, the Chinese cultural sphere makes China look like a master. For instance, Japan didn’t have a written system until the VII century, when Chinese (and Korean) buddhist monks came to the archipelago.

Therefore, when you see similar words in Chinese and Japanese, it’s usually because the second one is actually the first one but adapted to fit the local pronounciation.

As such, it comes clear how different the relationship between languages from those two regions of the World are, and I hope you can see why I love them.

[rhodesmystery]

what do YOU imagine durmstrang like?

okay honestly like @seawives​ gets it right here and here with the like eldritch horror living under the castle thing. They Get Me.

but otherwise like. hm.

how it’s described in book as being remarkably smaller than hogwarts and the fires not being lit for warmth. my takeaway from that has always been some kind of castle carved out of a cliff over a great lake, too, and i’ve kind of always stuck with it.

like the main foundation, is a relatively small castle (if you can consider castles small). a number of rooms for classes and board, of course, but it isn’t holding much else. talkative portraits and winding staircases and maybe if you’re unlucky, six missteps into the catacombs, but it is remarkably sparse in the main foundation, having been considered quite ‘newly’ made compared to the rest that lies below.

something being remarkably sheer, climbing up the side of a mountain for the main ‘foundation’ sitting on the top, is just. spooky. especially imagining that below the main foundation of the castle, the rooms just sprawl into the mountain. some abruptly end, some are magically locked. there’s ones that turn students around, returning them safely to a convenient staircase, and others that keep the brave trapped.

a bulgarian witch in the middle ages was the one who set durmstrang up. i am kind of in the camp that it originally was a likely small school located somewhere else before moving to somewhere vaguely northern europe, with mountains and lakes. okay actually, the ship has always been a thing. always been around. it found the location of the school, and just anchored itself in this fjord, not allowing itself to move for days on end.

koldovstertz exists too, and like literally everyone ever, there are more than the eleven schools around. obviously. durmstrang was started as some sort of early education school, as wizards and witches were getting themselves more organised. away from the fear of the non magical community, but it too started as just a quiet little place to teach the children how to control their magic. but it drew attention, and had to move... and move... and move. whilst other european schools rose up, durmstrang managed to hold it’s own despite being on the smaller side as far as attendance goes

durmstrang is kind of famous (infamous?) for martial magic. i kind of always pictured in house tournaments, and land that kind of sprawls on for training fields, beyond the classroom. from first year, combative ability is tested and tried, and expands beyond classic hexes and protective charms. inventiveness is rewarded.

despite it’s poor reputation and somewhat specific focus, durmstrang surprisingly generates a lot of creative students in the way of making new spells. sure, most of them are pretty much only useful in a duel, but more than one has gone on to create new charms and hexes, so there’s that.

european competitions are rarely held at durmstrang. might be because of that convenient bit of magic which makes people forget just where the school is located once they leave (which makes an unfortunate wandering student lost to the wilderness happen more often than not), but despite the crisp and beautifully maintained quidditch stadium, there just always seems to be an incident of some sort. lots of worries of curses and injury. surprisingly, one of the only places on the grounds with the least amount of death. might just be because durmstrang is just That Good.

the school holds a lot of secrets. secrets and ghosts and monsters. some things manage to bait the students who want the easy way, with whispers in the night and a book conveniently left open in the middle of a hallway. and snap! it takes the student away, shutting closed, until the next one comes along. apparently the library cries at night.

the water is crystal clear. almost deceptively so. over the summer, the students are allowed to swim, as the monsters hibernate. or so the rumour goes. but curse be on those who set toe upon the fjord in the dead of winter. 

there’s no house system in place. or if there was, once nerida vulchanova died, it was dismantled. more than once, there’s an upswing, of treating each classmate like the next opponent. trying to install some sense of competitiveness from a young age. plenty of students manage to throw the teachings aside. some aren’t so lucky.

whilst the hallways, or catacombs, below the main foundation are mildly frightening, by knocking on the correct portrait, thrice, it is easy enough to circumvent them entirely, and make it out onto the fjord unscathed. or there is the great winding staircase that clambers down. once it was just a rickety old rope ladder, but as the mountain grew (or the school did, who was to say what really came first and grew), not many are brave enough to try that anymore.

with such a diverse range of languages, there are translation tools available. each european language experiences an upswing every couple of decades, based on trend or usage. modernly, students would be speaking dominantly german, as lingua franca, and additional classes are held in between. many students walk out of durmstrang’s doors with more than a few languages under their belts.

whatever was below, no one knows if it existed before or after durmstrang’s ship set its anchor in the fjord. it has always just been. more than one curse breaker has been hired in to try to work their way down. whilst there has been progress, and many rooms have been rendered gentle, many curse breakers only last a month at most before the voices get too loud. who do they belong to? no one knows. but the voices continue, and there’s just always, out the corner of their eye, a dark shadow following.

blood purity and idealism nearly killed the institute. the stranglehold it has on the school is lessening, but with such an aggressive focus, and leniency only given to half-bloods as long as their magic parent is in good standing, the attendance of students has dropped considerably. old dormitories have long since been closed off and forgotten, and classes are barely more than twenty students every other year for one entire grade. once karkaroff leaves, there is a huge shift in management, and lots of little changes happen. several european ministries even get involved in management. 

the symbols burned into the walls by grindelwald don’t fade. they glow, sometimes, and once it had been a joyous whisper that those who saw the light were chosen. but now it’s a blight upon the school, and even when portraits are thrown over the top, or curtains or even someone trying to pry the stone from the wall, somehow, they still exist.

(until all the hallows are found, and then lost, do students notice that the symbols no longer exist)

[imacrowcawcaw]

@satans-helper and @shes-outta-sight , my main bros, thank you for the tag! 💗💕💗

So I chose like 15 of the questions to answer instead of all of them, just cuz I put a lot of time into my answers and I'll end up sitting here for hours really thinking about it lol

Height: about 5'6, 5'9 if I wear my favorite boots

What time is it currently?: 18:41

Favorite musicians/groups: Greta Van Fleet, Metallica, Led Zeppelin, Guns n Roses, Audioslave, Dave Matthews Band, Vitamin String Quartet.... so many

Other blogs: @theladylovingcrow is where I post my writing/artwork/other creative shit and @insannywestan is for any and all people who ship Sam Kiszka/Danny Wagner!

What am I wearing right now?: My leather motorcycle jacket, rainbow equality tee (bisexual pride woo), PJ pants and flip flops - I've said it before, I wear flip flops all year round even when it's pouring and hailing like now

Dream vacation: I wanna do like a historical tour of pretty much anywhere, but I'd be particularly interested in the East Coast of the U.S. or Europe. Like, I wanna pick a place, do hella research on its history and historical buildings/sites/people/museums, and then go visit them and bask in all the glory. I don't want a tour guide, maybe not even a companion, just my headphones playing period era music and a backpack full of history books and a map.

Dream car: I've got two kinda dream vehicles

- a sick classic motorcycle, black and red, maybe 60s Indian or something (I can't ride but I really really want to)

- a rusted out, mint 1968 Dodge pickup with patchwork upholstery and no seatbelts like my dad had

Favorite food: orange chicken and Marionberry cheesecake pie, but I'm on a super strict medical diet now so no more of that 😭

Languages: English, working on my family's native Dutch and German (very slowly, Opa is getting old and not as easy to understand)

Instruments: Bass guitar, violin, fiddle, viola, vocals (heh)

Last Google search: "Classic cars 60s Ford" I saw a neat car on the street and was trying to find out what model it was cause I couldn't quite sew

Recommend an album: "Our Own House" by Misterwives - I love this band! It is So fun, so passionate, so diversly emotional, has some great anthems... it's seriously such a good album

Recommend a book: Ella Minnow Pea - I can't remember the fucking author but it's such a unique, captivating book that I'd tell anyone with a love of English and some patience to read and love (like 4/5s of the alphabet are eliminated throughout the book so you gotta read aloud to phonetically understand it)

Recommend a recipe: okay, like last time, I'll make a post of the whole recipe and link it in a minute but.... LULU CROW'S EVERYTHING MEATBALLS

[thetravellingvagrant]

Day 16- Brno/Salzburg: In Which I Have A Bewildering Experience In A Lidl

My train to Salzburg was at a nice, relaxed 11:30am, thus I thought I would treat myself to the vagrant equivalent to a lie-in. I thought I would, but I didn't. This was due, entirely, to the Chinese girl, who not only had failed to turn her phone down during the night but had also thought it entirely acceptable behaviour to to get up at quarter to nine in the morning and carry out a phone conversation at full volume in a crowded room full of sleeping people, despite our dorm having a separate, unoccupied common room, just outside. Okay, whatever. It's fine. I'd just re-swap my earplugs for headphones and work on my blog. It's fine. It was fine.

I did just that for a while and  ended up leaving in surprising and uncharacteristically good time to catch my train. But like, super good time. Like I was was the station for an hour and a half before it arrived. Still, at least I wasn't in a room with those people any more, so I couldn't really complain.

I bibbled around on the platform, filling my time feeding pigeons and taking photos

sometimes taking photos OF pigeons.

and soon my train pulled in. I hopped on board and took a seat. This vagranting thing is easy.

This particular train would take me to Vienna, where I would need to change services in order to head to Salzburg, my final destination of the day. I had spotted on my ticket, not long after buying it that the window to make this connection was three minutes long. The train I was currently on had arrived five minutes late to Brno. I was not confident that I would make this connection. Fortunately, I happened to know that trains from Vienna to Salzburg run every hour, so, at absolute worst, I figured I would just have to kill some time in Wien; the worst place in europe.

When I arrived there, though, my vagrant sense went crazy. I stepped off the first train and had all but resigned myself to chilling for an hour when something beeped, loudly in my brain.

“That's your train on the platform across from you, that is.”

Tiny brain vagrant, that's really unlikely; the chances of just stumbling onto the right train, which just so happens to be directly across from the one I was just on, on the same platform a full minute after it was supposed to depart is really, really unlikely.

“...That's your train, that is” the voice repeated, but more passive aggressively

Jesus, okay, calm down, mate... I'll check. The voice in my head made a contented gurgle, which I'll be honest struck even me as quite odd.

I hopped over to the opposing platform and checked the destination of the tr- oh, it is the right train... I darted on board literally as the doors were closing and took a seat while tiny brain vagrant sung a little song about how right he was. No one likes a smart-ass, TBV.

I pulled into Salzburg some hours afterwards and marched manfully towards my accommodation, the amusingly named, and even more amusingly pronounced in an Austrian accent, Yoho hostel.

The Yoho hostel was one of these big, faceless, trendy places that tend to pop up a lot more frequently the further west into europe you go. The sort of places I really hate staying in, though unfortunately I had no choice in this instance, given that it was literally the only hostel with any free rooms in the entire city. I approached the front desk, it was manned by a chap that I would charitably call a preening tosser.  He bumbled through the typical hostel schpiel, stopping no less than twice to take phone calls in the middle of our brief conversation and handed me a check-in card to fill out. I was a little confused- isn't filling in these things like...one of your two jobs as a hostel receptionist? Okay, fine, whatever, I'll do it...

I filled the card in, including entering my own passport number, which I am one hundred percent certain is not something I am meant to do and handed it back to him. In return, he handed me the keycard to my room, while slicking his hair back. Cool.

I dumped my stuff on my bed (the lower bunk for once!) and headed straight back out to get some food, given that I had eaten one small sandwich throughout my day thus far. I decided to not faff around with getting anything fancy and to once again check out the Christmas markets, which, I had been told, were pretty effing delightful in Salzburg.

I strolled around finding many, many little mini markets dotted throughout the city, though each of them more concerned with selling small wooden trinkets in the shapes of angels and Gluhwine than they were with selling food. After a quick google, I discovered that the main-event of christmas markets took place in the cathedral square in old town and so, walked there immediately.

I think I must have still been in Czechia mode when I decided that eating at the market would be cost effective, because it just wasn't. Much more used to seeing prices along the lines of £2/3 for more food than my body could handle, it came as a shock to see prices increase to nearly £10 for rather paltry plates of knackerbrod or boxes of calamari (truly the most Christmassy of all foods.)

“I could have a full, sit-down meal for these prices...” I mused in horrified awe.

I decided to do just that and turned to leave. As I did, a magazine was thrust into my hands. I glanced down at it, it had some weird photoshopped picture of a plane dropping bombs or something on its cover along with some German, which I didn't understand, though seemed political in nature. I looked up at the person that had given me it. A rather dishevelled, middle eastern looking man.

“uhh?” I babbled.

He spoke to me in German and held out a little pot, which he presumably wanted me to put money in.

“No, sorry” I said, legitimately having no change, not wanting his awful magazine which I couldn't even read and fully resenting the obvious scam of putting the thing in my hands and refusing to take it back when I offered it to him, so I'd feel awkward and just pay him for it anyway.

He repeated the same thing, except more pleading. Rule of thumb for any tramps reading; if you want my money, be nice and don't try and scam me, because I'm sharp, I'm paranoid and I'm one hundred percent willing to throw your shitty magazine or plastic flower on the ground and walk away, if I feel like you're trying to trick me.

I tried to hand the magazine back to the man. He would not take it, obviously. He held his little cup up to me and repeated the German phrase one more time

“I do not want this.” I said to him, my eyes fixed on his.

He tried one more time and I told him no, again. All the warmth vanished from his face, he called me something which I'm sure I would find very offensive if I understood the language and snatched the magazine out of my hands. Because I'm a dick, I held on to it when he did, for just a split second. Just long enough to make it awkward. Any guilt I had felt for not giving this man money had immediately dissipated and I left the Christmas market in a bad mood.

I bought myself a burrito, which was...fairly bland, though not unpleasant and soon cheered up, though. Afterwards, I wasn't quite ready to return to my hostel and fancied getting myself something a little sweet. I made the decision then, to walk to Lidl.

Lidl was some distance away, though I was confident it would have them good Lidl doughnuts so I decided to go anyway. At the very least, walking through the city for forty five minutes would give me a nice overview of the place. Or at least it would have, if google had planned my route to go through the old town or along the river or something and not, as it did, through Salzburgian suburbia and along yet more not-quite-ringroads (resolution still in tact).

As it turned out, Lidl didn't actually even have that great a selection of doughnuts, making me wonder if it was worth the lengthy trek, there. Regardless I got myself a thing that translated into English as a “nut snail” and stood in line to pay. While in this line (which was for a long time, owing to the fact that there was only one man on the tills and most of his attention was taken up by an irate customer), there was an incredibly loud, almost deafening bang and immediately after it, three people in the queue behind me, without speaking, calmly abandoned their shopping and just walked out...I had no idea what was going on, but damned if I was walking all this way to leave without a nut snail, so I stuck it out, paid for my crap and left speedily, to face the thirty minute walk back to my hostel. I still have no idea what happened in that shop.

By the time I had arrived back, my feet had begin to blister quite badly. I'm not sure why they had decided to do this now; perhaps my sock was wet or bunched up or something, but it was really getting pretty bad. At the point of writing this I have still yet to put any significant pressure on my food and so can't tell how well it has healed overnight (at the time of posting this, I since have, and it was fine. Spoilers), though I worry I may be in for an uncomfortable day... (I wasn't.)

I limped back into my dorm and flumped onto my bed. Soon, I was joined by an Asian man, of which, there are just an incredible amount in this neck of the woods. He came in, said hello to me and asked if I had any water he could have. Not overjoyed at the prospect of sharing my precious water- this hostel not really having anything approaching a kitchen in which I could refill the bottle- but unable to tell him no as it was sitting in plain view, right next to me, I allowed him to decant some of it into his bottle. He thanked me and handed my bottle back.

“So, where you from?” he asked

“Oh, uh, Scotland.” I replied, not really expecting any more conversation.

“Ah, Scotlan...” he mused. “I heard about that.”

...He...heard about that? I wondered if he meant something specific that he had heard had happened, concerning Scotland, or that he had just heard about the country in general. Either answer seemed a bit weird.

“oh, right. Cool!” I offered as a stock reply.

“Ye, it like...England, right?”

“...it's next to England, sure”

“yeah, like...” he mimed a map of the British isles with his hands and pointed to the Scottish bit “England-lite, yes?”

...No the fuck you didn't. I scanned his face to see if he was teasing. It didn't appear so. Disappointing.

“Uh...” I laughed “Not...REALLY, no.”

He laughed too, though I sensed more because I was laughing and less because he thought he had made a joke.

“How about you?” I asked in return

“I'm from South Korea.”

“Ah, I've heard about that, too” I replied, perhaps slightly cheekily, though he didn't notice.

“Oh, you heard about it?”

“yeah....” I drifted off as I attempted to control the screaming desire that every fibre in my body felt to refer to it as North-Korea-Lite. Apparently I was doing this for longer than I thought and by the time I had swallowed these urges down and returned my mind to actual conversation mode, he had already clambered into his bunk and gone to sleep.

I fucked around for a few more hours, lackadaisically switching between procrastinating and Christmas shopping before finally, following suite and also turning in for the evening.

[antisemitism-eu]

Europe: Jews, get the hell out of Europe – taste freedom!

Via The Jerusalem Post (Brenda Katten):

(...) Is this freedom enjoyed by Jews living in Europe? Do they feel comfortable openly criticizing their government? Do they write articles in their national press pointing out all that they feel is wrong with their leaders? Is Arfa so content with the German government that she has no need to criticize them publicly? As a resident of Netanya, I wander through its main Independence Square and the language I most hear is French. [Note: approximately 200,000 Franco-Israelis reside in Israel and several thousand make alyah every year - others leave France tp go to the United States Canada...] Why have French Jews chosen to come here? It is not because they expect to have a more affluent life or to live without the fear of the possibility of war. They are here because they have the freedom to be Jewish. 

Is a higher standard of living compensation for experiencing antisemitism in all its forms? Sadly, history has proven that a well-filled purse in the Diaspora is more attractive than starting life anew in a country with a strange language that requires its 18-year-olds to enlist in defense forces so that others may live. It is considerably easier for an 18-year-old overseas to ponder which university to attend. Have we not witnessed time and again how Jews have chosen to stay in the economic comfort of their country of birth? Too many who initially had the chance to leave Europe prior to World War II chose, instead, to remain, ending their lives in the gas chambers. Perhaps the paragraph of Arfa’s article that disturbed me the most was, “Unlike the 1930s and 1940s, Jews have a place to go that will always welcome them, and maybe because of Israel’s existence Europe will not repeat the Holocaust. Now Jews have a state of their own that will have their back, ideally, and that should inspire them to bravely, confidently walk the streets with a kippa… fight court decisions that undermine Jews and Israel… and even bear arms.” Confidently walk the streets with a kippa? I wonder what Europe Arfa is talking about. When the rabbinate there is advising Jews not to walk the streets with kippot and when it is quite possible that the next prime minister of the UK will be blatantly antisemitic, does she really expect Jews to bear arms in Europe? Most disturbing is the notion that it is okay to let the Jews in Israel ensure that the Jews in the Diaspora have somewhere to escape to without recognizing that a key reason that some young people are leaving Israel could be because they do not want to be the ones to sacrifice their lives for those who choose to live in greater financial comfort elsewhere.

read more The writer is public relations chair of ESRA, which promotes integration into Israeli society The New Antisemite: http://ift.tt/2Fsl7Zz

[ahistoricalramblings]

Say What?: The Importance of Language and Word Choice in Genocide Studies

                                                                                           November 1, 2020

This past week we talked about dark tourism in class. This is right up my alley as in undergrad my focus was histories of violence. In particular, my focus was how violence has been commemorated. So, as I said—right up my alley. Despite this, I’d never actually considered the commodification of these sites. I’ve been so focused on how commemoration affects victims and survivors that I hadn’t ever considered who else would care. 

Anyway, we talked very briefly about Auschwitz and we had an optional reading on the topic. I’m not actually going to name the reading because my comments are about discourse about the Holocaust generally and the reading just sparked a much bigger fire in my soul. 

The main portion of this post will be about language and word choice—something that is deeply important to Holocaust studies (and if you ask me, all history).

  The one that is most important is the use of the term concentration camp. I would search Twitter for this reference but I actually dislike Twitter and avoid it at all costs—I’ll just tell you the story instead. 

A couple years ago, it was released that the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) had separated families and interned them in concentration camps. The use of the term enraged some twitter users who couldn’t believe someone would compare an immigration detention centre to Auschwitz. I’m hoping you see where I’m going with this. The ICE camps are concentration camps. Auschwitz wasn’t (well, not really -- more on this in a moment). 

Left: Concentration camps in Greater Germany. Right: the six killing centres

When I teach about the Holocaust, I use these maps because they telling you everything with just one look.  Look at how many dots there are on the left, and those are just major camps. Compare it to the right. This contrast tells us everything we need to know. 

The basic etymology here is that there were over 1000 concentration camps and sub-camps in German-occupied Europe and five (or six, depending on the scholar you ask) killing centres. The five were Auschwitz-Birkenau, Treblinka, Chelmno, Sobibor, and Belzec (the sixth is Majdanek but recently some scholars have argued that Majdanek was a holding site for transfers to killing centres not a killing centre itself). 

The difference is crucial to understanding how and why we use the term concentration camp in cases like the ICE centres. While concentrations camps did have lots of death via disease, torture, and starvation, their purpose was not solely to kill. They were meant to concentrate people into one area from which they couldn’t leave. Killing centres were solely designed for the purpose of killing. 

Left: map of Dachau concentration camp in 1944. Right: Map of Belzec killing centre 1942. 

I also use these maps as they show the difference in an important way. Dachau is largely barracks (most of the long buildings are barracks with a few exceptions). Belzec has almost no barracks. That’s because almost every Jew transferred to Belzec would be killed immediately. 

“But wait,” you say “I read Night/The Awakening/any other memoir of an Auschwitz survivor!” 

And you have, you’re not wrong. Which is of course what makes this conversation so hard to squeeze into laymen’s terms (not that I think you’re laymen). I will explain this as basic as possible (so don’t come at me). 

Auschwitz was actually a system of camps and sub-camps that we now use one term to describe. So, within what we now call Auschwitz there was a killing centre and a series of concentration camps—to make it difficult the Germans referred to them as Auschwitz I, II, and III (the killing centre was Auschwitz II). Basically, we use one term to describe more than one thing, convenient I know.  

I could go on about this issue and why Auschwitz looms so large in popular history but Chelmno, Sobibor, Belzec, and Treblinka don’t. I won’t for the sake of not talking your ear off but let me know if you want to talk about it more. 

I’m sticking to language for a second and talking about word choice. This isn’t the case for every scholar, but I was taught the majority of my undergrad Holocaust education by Doris Bergen and she really emphasized the importance of language. And so, I have continued this line of thinking. 

Language is so hard when we talk about the Holocaust. What terms do we use? We use concentration camp (Konzentration Lager in German) but we don’t use KZ (the acronym used by guards and prisoners alike). * Do we use ‘Final Solution’? It’s the terminology of the Germans but in its subtext, it implies that Jewish life is a problem. Do we use extermination? Its use was directly meant to evoke thoughts of bugs and pests. Do we use euthanasia? It’s a euphemism and it directly contradicts what actually happened in the T4 program. Do we use T4? It’s also a euphemism. This an endless cycle. The answer I give is that we use the term when talking about planning and documents and terminology but when we talk about victims, we talk death and murder not extermination or euthanasia. 

Let’s talk about the Wannsee Conference. Wannsee was a meeting on January 20, 1942 and has been cited in popular history as the ‘decision point for mass killings’. If you learned about it in high school, I wouldn’t be surprised if you were taught it was the start of mass killings. It wasn’t. Not even by a long shot. But it has often been depicted as such. 

Here’s why it’s not the start of mass killings in any context. Mass killing in the T4 program began in 1938 via mass starvation and injection, mass death in Polish ghettos had been happening since occupation in September 1939, and the Holocaust by bullets had killed 1.5 million Jews in the USSR since invasion in 1941. So Wannsee wasn’t the beginning of mass death. But was it the beginning of gas chambers? No. Gas chambers were being used to kill in the T4 program as well as to kill Russian POWs as early as 1940. Okay… so was it the beginning of gas chambers in German-occupied Poland? No. Chelmno, the previously mentioned killing centre, opened 2 months before Wannsee in December 1941. 

And yet, we are taught that Wannsee as this defining moment in the narrative of the Holocaust. I could do an analysis about why I think this is the case and I could cite modern scholars’ thoughts on what Wannsee actually was, but again, I want you stay awake. 

The last thing that bothers me about popular understanding of the Holocaust is about the term genocide. Quick background: genocide was coined by Raphael Lemkin in 1933. Lemkin was a Polish law student who had watched the trial of Soghomon Tehlirian who killed Talaat Pasha. 

I know those two names probably mean nothing to you. Pasha was instrumental in the Armenian Genocide in the Ottoman Empire between 1915 and 1921 (or 1917 depending on the scholar you ask). 

Lemkin watched the trial and wondered why Pasha wasn’t tried for killing a million people (the popular estimate for the Armenian Genocide puts the death toll at about 1.5 million). And so, he began to develop a term that could be codified to ensure that people like Pasha could be tried for their crimes. 

In the wake of the Holocaust, the world was confused about what to do in the face of mass death at the hands of the Germans. And Lemkin went to the UN to propose what he had proposed to the League of Nations in 1933. This time, they actually took the suggestion and drafted the Genocide Convention. **

This is a long-winded background, I know. But here’s the important bit—Lemkin based the definition off of the Armenian genocide, not the Holocaust. Despite the invocation of the law in 1948, the term itself is not inherently tied to the Holocaust. Why does this matter? Because of something Samantha Power calls the ‘Holocaust Standard’ which basically means that people compare all accusations of genocide against the Holocaust and if it’s not the same, it’s not genocide. You can see how this makes me angry. 

This was very popular in Canada last summer when the MMIW commission came back and said ‘this is genocide’. You can imagine how many people turned to me and asked if I agreed expecting me to say no. 

This is all to say: we need a total change in popular understanding of the Holocaust. Not only because it’s crucial to how we understand the history itself but also because the world today is influenced by our understanding of the Holocaust. From ICE detention centres to the MMIW commission, the Holocaust is living and breathing in the way we understand contemporary human rights discourse. And if it’s largely incorrect, where does that leave us? 

If I made any mistakes in terms of dates, names, etc., let me know (I did this all on memory... whoops). And if you have questions or what to continue the conversation in the replies or my ask box, do it! If you can’t tell, I love having conversations like this.  

I hope this was interesting/informative for you. Language and word choice are some of my favourite histories of violence topics and I could truly go on about it forever. 

Next week I will actually post the photography thing I meant to, I swear. 

Until then, stay savvy. 

*I could easily go off about the term GULag in this moment, but I won’t.  

**I would like to mention that Canada did not sign the Genocide Convention because they read it and said “umm that’s us, can’t sign that…”

[gumiguta]

Movie recommendation - Frantz (2016)

Director and scenario: François Ozon Main actors: Pierre Niney (Adrien Rivoire), Paula Beer (Anna) Language(s): French and German

“One of the most acclaimed films at last year's Venice Festival. 1920s Germany. A young German woman regularly visits the grave of her fiancé, who died in the war. One day, she meets a man at the cemetery who claims to be a friend of her fiancé's. It soon turns out that he has a secret. François Ozon's film is a variation on Broken Lullaby, Ernst Lubitsch's forgotten melodrama from 1932. In Frantz,the French director not only turns the conventions of the genre on their head, but he asks a self-referential question about the ethical aspects of storytelling. In addition-despite its old-fashioned trappings-Ozon's film can be interpreted in modern terms. As the director himself has noted in interviews, the film's atmosphere of tension, aggression, and growing nationalism is not very different from the mood seen in Europe in 2017.“ (SOURCE)

Guys, I haven’t planned this post at all. First of all I was surprised that a movie about French-German relationships (not necessary love ones) was actually in French and German. None of them are my target languages but it seems that French high school lessons weren’t that bad, since I could understand even whole sentences during watching Frantz. So I recommend this production to all French and German learners - the same amount of those languages.

The movie is interesting not only for its diversity of languages, but also because of the topic - you may think it’s a typical romantic movie, but fortunately it makes you think about nationalism, a stupid type of patriotism and price of winning wars. Okay, we all know that nationalism and war is bad, but Frantz tells you the truth that we usually ommit, we don’t want to hear about it. 

The movie is so emotional and thought-provoking, but in a different way. Watch it, guys, you won’t regret it.

If you watch it, you’ll understand why I want to see one of the Monet’s paintings at Louvre...

[cflaesgems16]

Grand Bisous

I am so grateful for my amazing, eight month long study abroad experience in Strasbourg, France. I met some great people and made friendships that will last a lifetime. I saw places in the world, I never thought I would see at such a young age. I have grown, personally and have learn many life lessons. Studying abroad is the best decision I have ever made in my life, and I am so thankful to my family and Bowling Green State University for allowing me this opportunity. For those of you thinking about studying abroad--DO IT! You will not regret it. But first, after reflecting on my time in Europe and my experiences (and even some regrets), here are sixteen tips, I think you will find useful.

1. Appreciate your host city/country

Get to know your host city/country, especially if you’re spending a long time abroad. This place will become your home. Learn about it’s history, it’s culture, it’s food. I love Strasbourg, it is truly such a diverse city. I especially fell in love with it’s Germanic culture and Christmas markets. I also, really love France! It’s crazy to see so much geographic diversity in one small country. I absolutely love the culture and I can’t wait to explore more of this amazing country in the future. Give your host city and host country the love it deserves! You don’t know what you have until it’s gone!

2. Travel alone/in a group/with an old friend/with a new friend

Travelling in all these different settings gives you a unique experience. I traveled alone, a lot and I really enjoyed that, because I had the freedom to do what I want. In a group, you lose that freedom, but you always have people to hang out with, and you can always break off into small couples and do things you want (like my trip to Italy). I went to Amsterdam with my friend Maya, she’s a friend from high school and she knows me and my personality, so it was great I got to share this experience with her. Sydney, who I met first semester, we went to Munich together and it was nice to have that one-on-one time to develop our friendship.

3. Keep a journal or blog (or both)

I know you’re going to be super busy while abroad, but keeping some sort of account of your time abroad is really useful. By having a public blog you can share with your friends and family what you're doing. It can also look good to future employers because it shows you have an understanding of blog websites which are becoming a popular marketing tactic. Also, you can look back on your blog when you’re back home and remember the awesome places you went.

It is also a good idea to keep a personal journal. That way you have somewhere to share your personal feelings. You can talk about school, your friends, vent if you're upset, angry, sad or stressed. It’s a more private place where you can record your challenges and how you overcame them.

4. Talk to people who don’t speak your native tongue/aren’t from your native country

During my time abroad, I noticed that people tend to group with other students from their native country or who spoke the same language as them. This is okay at first, especially since you're nervous about meeting new people and making friends, but don’t be afraid to branch out! Becoming friends with people from other countries not only gives you an opportunity to learn about their culture, but you can also visit them in the future, after your time abroad. For example, I’m planning to visit Jackie in Mexico after I graduate!

5. Plan your trips and vacations

I’ve always been a person who is very organized and plans everything! However, on my spring break trip to England, Ireland and Scotland I didn’t plan that much...and boy, I wish I had. By planning your trips, transportation, housing, and sites you want to see in advance, you can save yourself A LOT of money and time! I could’ve saved at least 500 euros if I had planned my spring break trip, a little better.

6. Stay safe

Obviously, this is a common tip, but I can’t stress this enough. Things are different abroad, cultures are different and you might be in a country that doesn’t speak English. I have heard many terrible stories from my friends about being followed, stalked and assaulted. Always be aware of your surroundings. If you’re taking public transportation at night, sit towards the front, so you’re close to the conductor. Make sure before going out for drinks at night your phone is charged, and you have a plan to get home. Trust me, you don’t want to be stranded alone at 5am waiting for the tram to go home. And always be sure that you are following the laws in your country, for example it’s illegal to have mace in France, so instead if you feel like you need something to protect yourself, carry around hair spray or aerosol deodorant.

7. Keep in touch with friends and family

You’re going to miss your friends and family, and they are totally going to miss you. Be sure to keep in touch, especially with your parents who definitely supported you so you could have this amazing opportunity. You can video chat via skype, Facetime, Whatsapp; message them through Facebook or Whatsapp; or even been old school and mail them postcards! I mailed my best friend Lydia, postcards from everywhere I went and she loved them.

8. Join a club or sport at your host university

This is one thing I regret not doing after studying abroad. By joining a club or sport at your host university, you can meet more people with similar interests. At EM Strasbourg, we didn’t mix with French students that much, if I had joined a club I could’ve met more people and practiced my French. Plus, joining a sport can help you not gain all the weight from eating and drinking all the amazing food in your host country.

9. Actually go to school, please

The first word in the phrase “study abroad” is “study”, so please actually go to class and take school seriously. Yes, my lectures at EM Strasbourg were 3 hours long per session and that was hard to get use to, but I went to all my classes and did well. I understand that you want to travel and go places all the time, but you’re there for school first, and exploring second. Plus, most schools understand this, and encourage that you travel so they will give you an additional free day (so every weekend is a long weekend).

10. Rest

Traveling every weekend is not only exhausting for your wallet but also your physical health. Make sure to give yourself a few breaks on the weekend and stay in your host city, binge watching Netflix and napping. You might feel guilty doing this, but your body will need to get rest. Sleeping on buses, trains and in airports really takes its toll. And you don’t want to be sick abroad, trust me even having the common cold is a bummer (especially since medicine may be extremely different and not as effective as the brands you find in your home country).

11. Don’t be afraid of hostels

One regret I have, is not staying in hostels as often. First, because they are a lot cheaper and usually closer to main tourist sites. They also may offer discounts to museums, and provide free or discounted tours, too. Lastly, you meet super cool people from all around the world, who may have similar interests as you and can offer advice on future travels. I met one of my great friends, Ben in a hostel in Lyon, we ended up going on the small trip to Annecy together which was unforgettable!

12. Say “yes” to (almost) everything

As long as you feel safe, and it’s nothing illegal, say “yes” to everything. New food; a spontaneous weekend trip; going to see a movie or going out for drinks. Saying “yes” and going out of your comfort zone is how you grow as a person and meet new people, and have new and exciting experiences.

13. Know you will change and accept it

Before I left for France, my friend Meredith who studied abroad during the summer told me I would change. At first, I didn’t believe her, I already enjoyed the person I was and the personality I had, so I didn’t think I would change that much. However, reflecting on my study abroad experience and the person I was eight months ago to who I am now, I have changed. I’m more focused on my goals, I’m more passionate and full of love and motivation. I’m itching to help people and help the world. I’m more patient, understanding and independent. I am nice to everyone and strangers on the street, because you never know when a smile or a simple “hello” to a stranger could help and change someone’s bad day into a good one. Honestly, I think these changes not only came from traveling alone, or being in a foreign country but from the experiences I had in everyday life in France as well as the friends I made. My friends were some of the biggest influencers, especially my best friend Jackie.

14. Try to speak/learn the language of your host country

In my opinion, nothing is more flattering to a person than attempting to learn and communicate in their native tongue. It shows that you are interested in their culture and are open to learning new things. Although it can be scary to speak a foreign language, try to speak it as much as you can to get the practice. At EM Strasbourg, we didn’t mix that much with french students so it was hard to practice my french. When I would do on solo trips, I tried my best to speak french, and yes at first I was very nervous and I did embarrass myself A LOT (I told my Uber driver in Paris that I loved him…). But practice makes perfect, and I’m sure the people you interact with will be willing to help you. The more you speak it, the better you’ll get at communicating. In second semester, when I was traveling alone and speaking french by myself, I noticed after a few days o just speaking french, I could carry on conversation with my Airbnb hosts, with ease!

15. It will be an adjustment at first

Things will be different in your host country and it could be frustrating at first. Getting all the appropriate paperwork settled, and opening my bank accounts and insurance was extremely stressful and overwhelming. But after a while you will get use to the flow of things in your host country. You’ll fall into a routine. You’ll remember to buy groceries on Saturday, since all the markets are closed on Sunday. You’ll learn the bus schedule and public transit schedule. It takes time and patience, and if you feel overwhelmed, vent! Vent to your friends back home, your family, your journal or even your classmates abroad, who are going through the same things as you!

16. Live in the moment

As someone who loves punctuality and planning, and being an American, my brain is always on and active; always thinking of “what’s next”. But while in Europe, I learned to stop and appreciate the moment. Whether it was walking through a park in Nancy, sipping a coffee near the cathedral in Strasbourg, looking at the end of the Earth at the Cliffs of Moher, or marveling at the ruins of Pompeii, I would stop and reflect. I would sometimes say a little pray and all-in-all just be thankful that I was in Europe seeing these amazing places, I only ever dreamed about. So, if you find yourself in a perfect little moment, stop for a few seconds and take it all in. The smell, the touch, the sight, the sounds and maybe the taste, too.

My eight months in France, honestly flew by. I thought it would be enough to explore all of Europe, but it wasn’t and I can’t wait to go back! I hope you’ve learned something from my travels, and hopefully I’ve inspired you to travel and provided you with quality advice and ideal destinations. Until next time. Grand bisous, Caroline xx

Je suis très reconnaissante pour mon extraordinaire expérience de huit mois à l'étranger à Strasbourg, en France. J'ai rencontré des gens formidables et j'ai fait des amitiés qui dureront toute une vie. J'ai vu des endroits dans le monde, je n'ai jamais pensé que je le verrais à un si jeune âge. J'ai grandi, personnellement, et j'ai appris beaucoup de cours de vie. Étudier à l'étranger est la meilleure décision que j'ai prise dans ma vie et je suis tellement reconnaissant à ma famille et à l'Université Bowling Green State pour m'avoir permis cette opportunité. Pour ceux d'entre vous qui pensent étudier à l'étranger - FAITES-LE! Vous ne le regretterez pas. Mais d'abord, après avoir réfléchi sur mon temps en Europe et mes expériences (et même quelques regrets), voici seize conseils, je pense que vous trouverez utile.

1. Êtes sensible à votre pays/ville organisateur

Apprenez à connaître votre ville/pays organisateur, surtout si vous dépensez longtemps à l'étranger. Cet endroit deviendra votre maison. En savoir plus sur l'histoire, c'est la culture, c'est de la nourriture. J'adore Strasbourg, c'est vraiment une ville si diversifiée. Je suis surtout tombé amoureux de la culture germanique et des marchés de Noël. J'aime vraiment la France! Il est fou de voir tant de diversité géographique dans un petit pays. J'adore la culture et j'attends pour explorer plus de cet incroyable pays à l'avenir. Donnez à votre ville organisateur et pays organisateur l'amour qu'il mérite! Vous ne savez pas ce que vous avez jusqu'à ce qu'il soit parti!

2. Voyagez seule/dans une groupe/avec un ami vieux/avec un ami nouvel

Voyager dans tous ces différents paramètres vous offre une expérience unique. J'ai voyagé seul, beaucoup et j'ai vraiment apprécié ça, parce que j'avais la liberté de faire ce que je voulais. Dans un groupe, vous perdez cette liberté, mais vous avez toujours des gens à traîner, et vous pouvez toujours vous séparer de petits couples et faire des choses que vous voulez (comme mon voyage en Italie). Je suis allé à Amsterdam avec mon ami Maya, elle est une amie du lycée et elle me connaît et ma personnalité, donc c'était génial je pourrais partager cette expérience avec elle. Sydney, que j'ai rencontré le premier semestre, nous sommes allés à Munich ensemble et c'était sympa d'avoir cette fois-ci pour développer notre amitié.

3. Écrivez un journal ou blog (ou le même)

Je sais que vous allez être très occupé à l'étranger, mais garder une sorte de compte rendu de votre séjour à l'étranger est vraiment utile. En ayant un blog public, vous pouvez partager avec vos amis et votre famille ce que vous faites. Cela peut aussi être bon pour les futurs employeurs, car cela montre que vous avez une compréhension des sites Web de blogs qui deviennent une tactique de marketing populaire. De plus, vous pouvez regarder en arrière sur votre blog lorsque vous rentrez chez vous et rappelez-vous les endroits géniaux où vous êtes allés.

C'est aussi une bonne idée de garder un journal personnel. De cette façon, vous avez quelque part pour partager vos sentiments personnels. Vous pouvez parler de l'école, de vos amis, si vous êtes en colère, triste ou stressé. C'est un endroit plus privé où vous pouvez enregistrer vos défis et comment vous les avez surmontés.

 4. Parlez avec les gens qui ne dit pas votre langue/qui n’habite pas dans votre pays

Pendant mon séjour à l'étranger, j'ai remarqué que les gens ont tendance à se regrouper avec d'autres étudiants de leur pays d'origine ou qui ont parlé la même langue qu’eux. C'est d'accord au début, d'autant plus que vous êtes nerveux à l'idée de rencontrer de nouvelles personnes et de faire des amis, mais n'ayez pas peur de vous brancher! Devenir amis avec des gens d'autres pays ne vous donne pas seulement l'occasion de connaître leur culture, mais vous pouvez également les visiter à l'avenir, après votre séjour à l'étranger. Par exemple, j'ai l'intention de visiter Jackie au Mexique après mon diplôme!

5. Planifiez vos vacances et voyages

J'ai toujours été une personne très organisée et tout planifiée! Cependant, lors de mes vacances de printemps en Angleterre, en Irlande et en Ecosse, je n'avais pas prévu autant ... et pfff, j'aimerais avoir eu. En planifiant vos déplacements, votre logement et vos sites que vous souhaitez voir à l'avance, vous pouvez économiser beaucoup d'argent et de temps! J'aurais pu économiser au moins 500 euros si j'avais planifié mon voyage de printemps, un peu mieux.

6. Mettez sûr

Évidemment, c'est un conseil commun, mais je ne peux pas le souligner assez. Les choses sont différentes à l'étranger, les cultures sont différentes et vous pourriez être dans un pays qui ne parle pas l'anglais. J'ai entendu beaucoup d'histoires terribles de mes amis à propos d'être suivis, harcelés et agressés. Toujours être conscient de votre environnement. Si vous prenez des transports publics la nuit, asseyez-vous vers l'avant, vous êtes donc proche du contrôleur. Assurez-vous avant de sortir pour les boissons la nuit, votre téléphone est chargé et vous avez un plan pour rentrer à la maison. Croyez-moi, vous ne voulez pas être bloqué seul à 5 ​​heures du matin en attendant que le tram soit rentré à la maison. Et assurez-vous toujours que vous suivez les lois de votre pays, par exemple, il est illégal d'avoir du gaz lacrymogène en France, donc, si vous sentez que vous avez besoin de quelque chose pour vous protéger, transportez la laque à cheveux ou désodorisants en aérosol.

7. Restez en contact avec votre famille et amis

Ils vous manquent vos amis et votre famille et vous les manquez totalement. Assurez-vous de rester en contact, en particulier avec vos parents qui vous ont soutenus afin que vous puissiez avoir cette incroyable opportunité. Vous pouvez faire un chat vidéo via skype, Facetime, Whatsapp; les envoyer les messages sur Facebook ou Whatsapp; ou même été vieille école et leur envoyer des cartes postales! J'ai envoyé ma meilleure amie Lydia, des cartes postales de partout où je suis allé et elle les aimait.

8. Devenez un membre d’organisation ou un sport à votre université étrangère

C'est une chose que je regrette de ne pas faire après avoir étudié à l'étranger. En rejoignant un club ou un sport dans votre université étrangère, vous pouvez rencontrer plus de personnes ayant des intérêts similaires. À EM Strasbourg, nous ne avons pas melange avec les étudiants français, si j'avais joint un club, j'aurais rencontré plus de gens et pratiquer mon français. De plus, rejoindre un sport peut vous aider à ne pas prendre tout le poids de manger et de boire tous les aliments incroyables dans votre pays organisateur.

9. Allez aux vos cours, si vous plait

Le premier mot dans la phrase «étudier à l'étranger» est «étudier», alors, s'il vous plaît, partez en classe et prenez l'école au sérieux. Oui, mes cours à EM Strasbourg ont duré 3 heures par session et c'était difficile, mais je suis allé à toutes mes cours et j'ai bien réussi. Je comprends que vous voulez voyager et faire des places tout le temps, mais vous êtes là pour l'école d'abord et en explorant le deuxième. De plus, la plupart des écoles comprennent cela et encouragent votre voyage afin qu'ils vous donnent une journée gratuite supplémentaire (donc chaque week-end est un long week-end).

10. Restez

Voyager chaque week-end n'est pas seulement épuisant pour votre portefeuille, mais aussi votre santé physique. Assurez-vous de vous donner quelques pauses le week-end et de rester dans votre ville organisateur, en regardant Netflix et la sieste. Vous pourriez vous sentir coupable de faire cela, mais votre corps devra se reposer. Dormir dans les bus, les trains et dans les aéroports prend vraiment son péage. Et vous ne voulez pas être malade à l'étranger, croyez-moi même si le rhume est un bummer (surtout que la médecine peut être extrêmement différente et pas aussi efficace que les marques que vous trouvez dans votre pays d'origine).

11. N’avez pas peur des auberges

Un regret que j'ai, ne reste plus souvent dans les auberges. Tout d'abord, parce qu'ils sont beaucoup moins chers et habituellement plus proches des principaux sites touristiques. Ils peuvent aussi offrir des réductions sur les musées et proposer gratuitement des excursions à prix réduit. Enfin, vous rencontrez des gens super cool du monde entier, qui peuvent avoir des intérêts similaires à ceux que vous et pouvez vous conseiller sur les voyages à venir. J'ai rencontré un de mes grands amis, Ben dans une auberge à Lyon, nous avons fini par faire un petit voyage à Annecy qui était inoubliable!

12. Dites “oui” à (presque) tout

Tant que vous vous sentez en sécurité, et ce n'est rien d'illégal, dites «oui» à tout. Nouvelle nourriture; Un voyage de week-end spontané; Aller voir un film ou sortir pour boire un verre. Dire «oui» et sortir de votre zone de confort est la façon dont vous grandissez en tant que personne et rencontrez de nouvelles personnes, et avez des expériences nouvelles et passionnantes.

13. Saviez que vous changerez et l’acceptez

Avant de partir pour la France, mon amie Meredith qui a étudié à l'étranger pendant l'été m'a dit que je changerais. Au début, je ne l'ai pas cru, j'ai déjà apprécié la personne que j'étais et la personnalité que j'avais, alors je ne pensais pas que je changerais autant. Cependant, en réfléchissant sur mon expérience à l'étranger et la personne que j'avais il y a huit mois à qui je suis maintenant, j'ai changé. Je suis plus concentré sur mes objectifs, je suis plus passionné et plein d'amour et de motivation. Je me passionne pour aider les gens et aider le monde. Je suis plus patiente, compréhensive et indépendante. Je suis gentille avec tout le monde et les étrangers dans la rue, parce que vous ne savez jamais quand un sourire ou un simple «bonjour» à un étranger pourrait aider et changer la mauvaise journée de quelqu'un dans une bonne. Honnêtement, je pense que ces changements ne viennent pas seulement de voyager seul ou d'être dans un pays étranger, mais des expériences que j'ai eu dans la vie quotidienne en France ainsi que les amis que j'ai faits. Mes amis ont été parmi les plus influents, en particulier ma meilleure amie Jackie.

14. Essayez parler la langue/apprenez la langue de votre pays organisateur

À mon avis, rien n'est plus flatteur pour une personne que de tenter d'apprendre et de communiquer dans leur langue maternelle. Cela montre que vous êtes intéressé par leur culture et qu'ils sont ouverts à apprendre de nouvelles choses. Bien qu'il puisse être effrayant de parler une langue étrangère, essayez de le dire autant que vous le pouvez pour obtenir la pratique. À  EM Strasbourg, nous ne mélangeons pas autant avec les étudiants français, donc c'était difficile de pratiquer mon français. Quand je ferais des voyages individuels, j'ai fait de mon mieux pour parler français, et oui, j'étais d'abord très nerveux et j’ai embrasse moi-même beaucoup (j'ai dit à mon conducteur d'Uber à Paris que je l'aimais ...). Mais la pratique est parfaite et je suis sûr que les personnes avec lesquelles vous interagissez seront disposées à vous aider. Plus vous parlez, mieux vaut vous communiquer. Au deuxième semestre, lorsque je voyageais seul et que je parlais en français par moi-même, j'ai remarqué, après quelques jours, que je parlais français, je pourrais entretenir la conversation avec mes hôtes Airbnb.

15. Ce sera un ajustement, au début

Les choses seront différentes dans votre pays organisateur, et cela pourrait être frustrant au début. Obtenir toutes les formalités appropriées réglées, et ouvrir mes comptes bancaires et l'assurance était extrêmement stressante et écrasante. Mais après un certain temps, vous allez utiliser le flux de choses dans votre pays organisateur. Vous allez tomber dans une routine. Vous vous souviendrez d'acheter des épiceries samedi, car tous les marchés sont fermés dimanche. Vous apprendrez le calendrier de bus et le calendrier de transport en commun. Il faut du temps et de la patience, et si vous vous sentez débordé, faites-le vent! Entrez vos amis à la maison, à votre famille, à votre journal ou même à vos camarades de classe à l'étranger, qui font face aux mêmes choses que vous!

16. Vivez dans la moment

Comme quelqu'un qui aime la ponctualité et la planification, et étant un Américaine, mon cerveau est toujours actif; Toujours en train de penser à "quoi de suite". Mais en Europe, j'ai appris à arrêter et à apprécier le moment. Que ce soit en parcourant un parc à Nancy, en sirotant un café près de la cathédrale de Strasbourg, en regardant le bout de la terre aux falaises de Moher, ou en s'émerveillant des ruines de Pompéi, je m'arrêterais et réfléchirais. Je dis parfois un peu de prière et tout-en-tout, je suis reconnaissant que j'étais en Europe en voyant ces endroits étonnants, je n'ai jamais rêvé. Donc, si vous vous trouvez dans un petit moment parfait, arrêtez-vous pendant quelques secondes et prenez tout. L'odeur, le toucher, la vue, les sons et peut-être le goût aussi.

Mes huit mois en France ont honnêtement volé. Je pensais qu'il suffirait d'explorer toute l'Europe, mais ce n'était pas le cas et j'attends peu de revenir en arrière! J'espère que vous avez appris quelque chose de mes voyages, et j'espère que je vous ai inspiré pour voyager et vous ai fourni des conseils de qualité et des destinations idéales. Jusqu'à la prochaine fois. Grand bisous, Caroline xx

[liquidmetalslime]

Dragon Quest: Where to Start

Introduction

The “where do i start” question is asked quite frequently on /r/dragonquest and the main FB fangroup, so i assumed i’d make my own list.

I’m gonna compile each game that has been released outside of Japan into this post and give their most important features of each version available -at least- in English so anyone can see the differences and choose according to their needs or preferences. 

Note 1: To mark in which languages is available each release, i’m gonna put these next to its platform: (E) = English; (F) = French; (G) = German; (I) = Italian; (S) = Spanish. “EFIGS” may only apply to the EU version, though.

Note 2: Some things might not be 100% accurate, I’m just a slime, sluurp 🙇🏻🙏. 

Note 3: Games with only one version available in English (or Multi-5) will get this message in the recommendation: “There’s only a version.”. Games in which you can choose the gender of the main characters will include this sentence in its info: “In this game, you can choose the gender of the main character.”.

Note 4: Reminder about the Roman numerals (just in case): I = 1, II = 2, III = 3, IV = 4, V = 5 , VI = 6, VII = 7, VIII = 8, IX = 9, X=10 and XI = 11.

Note 5: The post-2006 releases use lots of puns, jokes, and accents. It’s a characteristic of the series, as are the title alliterations (ie: Chapters of the Chosen, Luminaries of the Legendary Line, etc), the black and white menus, or the classic main theme, etc. Most of the post-2010 releases use visible encounters as well. As for now, there seems to be no turning back.

I’ll be skipping games that require fan-translation (I only mention them, but I highly prefer officially released titles). 

↳ Aside from this, i am aware US Gamer made a similar list (click here). 

⚠️ BEWARE: This post is HUGE. ⚠️

What is Dragon Quest? 

Dragon Quest is a JRPG franchise developed by Enix (now Square Enix). The series is very traditional, in various aspects, the most notorious being the turn-based encounters and the encouragement to explore every corner. The main staff behind the series is: Yuji Horii (Scenario), Akira Toriyama (Art) and Koichi Sugiyama (Music). DQ first started 31 years ago in Japan, in May of 1986. A few years later, in 1989, it was first released in North America, but due to copyright issues with “Dungeons & Dragons”, Enix had to change the name to “Dragon Warrior”. After the Square Enix merger in 2003, they could finally solve the naming issue and, starting with the eighth entry in the main series, in 2005, DQ was finally getting called “Dragon Quest” in North America. One year later, in 2006, the series was introduced in Europe with that same game, Dragon Quest VIII (prior to that, only one spinoff had came to Europe). Since then, many remakes, re-releases, and spinoffs came to the West, even with some years of silence between 2011 and 2014. In 2017 we’re getting Dragon Quest VIII for 3DS (in January) and Dragon Quest Heroes II for PS4 and Steam (in April). ---

It should be noted DQ is a very special JRPG series, and most of its narrative comes from NPCs or books. This series really encourages the player to explore everything and to talk to everyone. That might be the only way to get clues of what to do next. Aside from that, in the games that it’s available, the Party Chat feature is also one of the most reliable features you’ll find in these games. Party chat lets your party members give you their opinions and comment on lots of different things that happen in the game -from the reaction they get after talking to a NPC, to their reaction after an important cutscene-, and they might also give you tips and remind you of what you have to do next. Aside from that, it’s a great tool to see the personalities of your characters.  That said, do not come to this series expecting lots of pre-rendered cutscenes and lots of flashy action, this series is not about that (there is some, of course, but not as many as in other JRPGs). As i said a bit earlier, DQ is very special for other things too. The combat is always turn-based in the main series (except in the MMO) and the dialogue is usually full of puns and jokes. Unlike many other series, almost all the games have the same quality and its a highly consistent series, due to the main creators always being the same (Mr Yuji Horii, Mr Koichi Sugiyama and Mr Akira Toriyama). What you need to know about the other works of these three gentlemen: Horii created one of the games that inspired Hideo Kojima that videogames could offer interesting stories (”The Portopia Serial Murder Incident”); Sugiyama has been composed many classic music and worked on various 70s Japanese tv shows such as “The Return for Ultraman”; and AKira Toriyama is a worldwide known manga artist, mainly for his two masterpieces: Dr. Slump and Dragon Ball.

↳ For more information about the series, check its Wikipedia article.

Where to start? @liquidmetalslime’s choices

NOTE: Okay, let me be clear, in this block i’ll talk about what are the best entry points IN MY OPINION, as the title clearly say.

To start playing the series, the best three entry points in the main series are IV (4) , VIII (8) and XI (11). The first one can be played in English on NES and Mobile and in Multi-5/EFIGS on DS. The second one can be played in English and French on Mobile and EFIGS on PS2 and 3DS. The third one will be available on PS4 and PC in Multi-5 later this year; sometime in the future also on Switch.

- IV is divided in chapters and features a highly likeable cast -specifically a certain Tsarevna. Each chapter is unique and follows a specific set of characters, who will later meet in the fifth and longest chapter. This story is quite tragic and is best enjoyed on the remakes of the game, since these remakes include a sixth chapter that gives an insight in the motives that drove the villain to do what he did. If you want to play in English and get its best version to date, the mobile (iOS/Android) version is the one. If you want to play using physical buttons or in French, German, Spanish or Italian, the (EU) DS release is for you. The DS/Mobile remakes use lots of puns and accents (the NES version doesn’t), and that can be bothersome until you get used to it, but it’s worth it (and I personally love it, except in the first chapter while playing in English. I didn’t have any issue while playing in Spanish). This is the one that gave me an obsession made me a DQ fan.

- VIII on the other hand, focuses a lot more on a major plot and its characters. Due to that, it is the easiest DQ to jump in if you already like other JRPG series. Given its artstyle and big scale of its world, it gives a great sense of adventure (its actually not that big, but it feels huge). As IV, VIII’s characters are regarded as some of the best in the whole series, specially Yangus and Trode. As in IV, the remake gives us some more information about the villain and his motives. If you value content and quality of life improvements over looks, the 3DS version is the definitive version. Otherwise, if you prefer prettier graphics, go for the PS2 version. The 3DS version is what i consider its best version to date, and its the easiest to find nowadays, besides the Mobile port. 

- XI is an interesting title because despite being full of throwbacks and -maybe- connections to the older games,  it introduces many quality-of-life improvements into the usual mechanics of the series. On top of that, has a killer soundtrack, composed with brand new songs (which some will say that are weaker) and a whole lot of classic songs from all the main games. And to round up the package, it also has gorgeous graphics. The cast is likeable, the story is interesting, the gag moments are nice, the sad moments are touching (i personally thought Horii couldn’t outdo himself after V, but boy i was wrong). It has a lot to like, and little to dislike. The real shame about this game is that we -apparently- won’t be getting the 3DS version.

Aside from these three games, the other main titles might be a good point to start too, but some might have give some trouble, for example:

I and II: (Terribly) Outdated. II is also the hardest game in the whole series, and its NES version is quite unbalanced at the final parts of the game.The devs even admitted in an interview that they couldn’t balance it properly because they couldn’t delay the game.

III and VII: These are better enjoyed if you have played some of the previous games, for example III is better enjoyed with knowledge of I and II (of their story, i mean), and VII with knowledge of what to expect from the game (how DQ’s narrative usually works, how the battles work, etc) as well as knowing a bit about VI’s mechanics.

V: Probably the top of the series, but I feel it’s not as DQ-newbie-friendly as IV and VIII. Still a solid game.

VI: Love it or hate it experience. 

IX: It’s quite different from the other games since it focuses a lot more on character customization (there are no pre-made characters, besides some that are acquired in some postgame DLC quests), so it might give a wrong idea of what the series is like. It is a lovely game, though. 

Other notes:

III, VI, VII and IX (and X, but that’s Japan-only for now) use class systems.

Outside the main series, in my opinion, the best entry points might also be:

- Dragon Quest Monsters 1 and 2 (better known as Dragon Warrior Monsters 1 and 2). Charming monster collecting games. The first one features Terry, originally from DQVI, on his quest to win the Starry Night Tournament, while the second one features two original characters (Tara & Coby) on a quest to save their new island. DQM2/DWM2 comes in two versions. In one you play as Tara and in the other as Coby. Might be a bit outdated, but they’re quite fun games. I feel like they’re better than the other monster-catching games of that era, at least technically.

- Dragon Quest Monsters Joker 2. The most recent Monsters game we got. Has a quite deep synthesis system and it’s quite intuitive. Also has a large amount of beasts. Could feel a bit clunky and slow to play nowadays, though.

- Dragon Quest Builders. Easy to play and with really charming aspects. Has a long story and huge replay value, as each time the player can build their base differently. It has been called “the Minecraft for those who don’t like Minecraft”, due to it being more guided that the mentioned game. It has some connections to the first three games in the series, but can be enjoyed without previous knowledge of the series. If you had to choose a DQ spinoff, choose this one. Don’t think of it as a “Minecraft with DQ skins”. There’s a Minecraft mod for that, this is quite different.

Games & Releases: Versions that have been released in the West

In this huge block, we’re gonna look at each game, its western releases (trying to cover both NA-only and NA/EU/AUS releases), the features each re-release (if any) has in comparison to the first English/Western version, and my recommendations for each game.

Dragon Quest I

Info: Old JRPG with very simple mechanics. It is the first console JRPG out there (almost a year and a half earlier than Final Fantasy 1!). The story is quite simple (save the princess and defeat the bad guy) and the gameplay is very bare bones, but still an enjoyable game. It’s also really short, can be beaten in about 6 hours if you’re fast.

Versions and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest I · II (SFC), 1993; Dragon Quest 25th Anniversary Collection (Wii), 2011. [There is a fantranslation for the SFC remake.]

- Dragon Warrior for NES (E)

Old DW translation. (Besides DW glossary, it uses a lot of Old English.)

The graphics might be too outdated for some.

Quite grindy.

- Dragon Warrior 1 · 2 for GBC (E)

Remade DW translation.

Enhanced (yet simpler) graphics.

Better balancing.

There is a prologue scene.

- Dragon Quest I for iOS and Android (E)

New DQ translation (still uses Old English, but with the newer DQ glossary).

Brighter, more colorful world, but poorly upscaled graphics. (Because its a port of an old mobile port they did in the mid 2000s, but fitted into a way higher screen)

Even better balancing.

No prologue scene.

My recommendation: “Dragon Quest I” for iOS and Android (E).  Why?: It’s simply the best version: better graphics, music, translation and balancing (meaning less grinding). 

The Mobile port is the only version available in Europe, btw.

Dragon Quest II

Info: Second game in the series. Adds extra two party members there can be various monsters on battle, there’s also a ship and a waaaay bigger world (the world of DQ1 is just a small part of the one in DQ2). That said, it is worth noting the original version of this game was quite rushed and the end-game areas are quite unbalanced. The story is quite simple too: An evil mage named Hargon plans on destroying the world and starts by attacking the kingdom of Moonbrooke. The princes of Midenhall and Cannock reunite with their lost cousin from Moonbrooke to stop Hargon.

Versions and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest I · II (SFC), 1993; Dragon Quest 25th Anniversary Collection (Wii), 2011.  [There is a fantranslation for the SFC remake.]

- Dragon Warrior II for NES (E)

Old DW translation. (Besides DW glossary, it uses a lot of Old English.)

The graphics might be too outdated for some.

Quite grindy, specially in end-game areas. (Enix admitted they couldn’t balance the last areas of the game due to time constrains.)

- Dragon Warrior 1 · 2 for GBC (E)

Remade DW translation.

Enhanced (yet simpler) graphics.

Better balancing.

New intro scene.

- Dragon Quest II Luminaries of the Legendary Line for iOS and Android (E)

New DQ translation.

Brighter, more colorful world, but poorly upscaled graphics. (Same reason as DQ1-Mobile).

Even better balancing.

Prologue scene.

Limitations to avoid players venture into the most dangerous dungeon unprepared.

My recommendation: “Dragon Quest II Luminaries of the Legendary Line” for iOS and Android (E). Why?: It is the best version: better looks, sound, translation and balancing.

The Mobile port is the only version available in Europe, btw.

Dragon Quest III

Info: First DQ game to feature a class system, which was supported by a personality system thus making almost every character unique. This game also features some big plot twists and even larger areas to explore. DQ3 also ends the Erdrick/Loto trilogy. The story follows the offspring of a great hero (Ortega) and their quest to finish what their disappeared father started: to defeat the evil Baramos. In this game, you can choose the gender of the main character. (Note: And the gender of any character you create.)

Versions and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest III (SFC), 1996; Dragon Quest 25th Anniversary Collection (Wii), 2011.  [There is a fantranslation for the SFC remake.]

- Dragon Warrior III for NES (E)

Old DW translation. (Besides DW glossary, it uses a bit of old english.)

The graphics might be too outdated for some.

- Dragon Warrior 3 for GBC (E)

Remade DW translation.

Enhanced (yet simpler) graphics.

Pachisi/T’n’T minigame.

Monster animations.

2 bonus dungeons: the one added in the SFC remake and a brand new one.

Monster medals.

- Dragon Quest III Seeds of Salvation for iOS and Android (E)

New DQ translation. (There are some areas that still use Old English).

No Pachisi/T’n’T minigame, nor Monster Animations nor Monster Medals.

Brighter, more colorful world, but (somewhat) poorly upscaled graphics.  (Same reason as DQ1-Mobile).

1 bonus dungeon: the one added in the SFC remake.

My recommendation: This is a hard choice, but it is between “Dragon Warrior 3” for GBC (E) and “Dragon Quest III Seeds of Salvation” for iOS and Android (E).  Why?: The GBC version has a lot more content, but the Smartphone version has a newer DQ-style translation and better graphics. Many will say the SFC remake is better, but i love monster medals and the official translations 🤷‍♀️

The Mobile port is the only version available in Europe, btw.

Note about the Erdrick Trilogy (I - III): This trilogy is better enjoyed when played in order (DQ -> DQII -> DQIII).

Dragon Quest IV

Info: First game of the Zenithian trilogy (which is loosely connected). First -and only- DQ game to be told in chapters so far. Each one follows different people, and in the fifth, they all meet to fulfill their roles al the chosen ones. Here, instead of having generic characters with classes, we have set (and very charismatic) characters who learn a specific sets of spells and skills. In this game, you can choose the gender of the main character.

The overall story focuses on a demon who loves a lovely elf and hates human for how they treat elves, monsters and dwarves. The party must stop this demon, Psaro, from awakening the demon lord and destroying the world.

Versions and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest IV (PS1), 2001.

- Dragon Warrior IV for NES (E)

Old DW translation.

Completely 2D.

- Dragon Quest IV: (The) Chapters of the Chosen for DS (EFIGS)

New DQ translation.

Prologue chapter.

No party-chat. (It was added in the Japanese remake, and was mostly translated by the release date, but SQEX decided to not put it for some reason)

2.5D, since it uses DQVII’s PS1 style.

- Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen for iOS and Android (E)

DQ translation.

Prologue chapter.

Has party chat.

2.5D.

My recommendation: Depends, but choose one from the latter two.  Why?: If you want to play in French, Spanish, Italian or German, go for the DS release. If you want to enjoy the party chat feature, for for the Smartphone release. The party chat seems pointless but it actually gives a lot of characterization to the party members.

Dragon Quest V

Info: Second game of the Zenithian trilogy. In this particular game, the story follows a young man through his (painful) life: from his childhood to his adulthood. DQ5 was one of the first games ever to let players recruit monsters to join their team (which, some years after its release, and after the success of Pokémon, inspired the birth of “Dragon Quest Monsters”). It also allows choosing a wife (well, it forces the player to choose one, since it is related to the plot): Bianca, the childhood friend; Nera, the sweetheart from a good family; or Debora, the passionate sister of Nera. This game has probably the best story in the whole series.

Versions and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest V (SFC), 1992; Dragon Quest V (PS2), 2004. [There are fantranslations for these two titles.]

- Dragon Quest V: (The) Hand of the Heavenly Bride for DS (EFIGS)

- Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride for iOS and Android (E)

Some slight tweaks.

The two versions of this game we got are quite similar, except some small balancing and changes of MP cost. Both feature DQ-style localization (it’s the same for both versions), a new bride not present in the original SFC release nor PS2 remake (Debora), a few more monsters of newer games (like DQVIII’s Jailcat) and some other tweaks.

My recommendation: Doesn’t matter. Why?: Both are pretty much the same, choose according to your wallet or control preferences. I’d choose DS though, since the mobile port can be buggy in some phones (and due to multi-5 too).

The NES version only released in North America, btw.

Dragon Quest VI

Info: Third and last game of the Zenithian trilogy (First, chronologically). In this game the party travels between two worlds: reality and dream world. There are two extra “worlds”: underwater and the dread realm. In this game, there’s a class system quite different from III, since the classes of VI aren’t tied to the character’s level but to the number of battles won, with 8 levels of mastery (8 stars = mastered the class).

The story is about a group of young people who are off to fight the evil demon who rules the dreams and treats the land (Murdaw). But there’s more, the game is about traveling between worlds and solving problems and fighting the Dreadfiends.

Versions and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest VI (SFC), 1995. [There is a fantranslation for this title.]

- Dragon Quest VI: Realms of Revelation / Reverie for DS (EFIGS)

- Dragon Quest VI: Realms of Revelation for iOS and Android (E)

Better balanced and a few tweaks.

The two versions of the game we got are pretty similar, so there’s only these two differences: controls and enhanced balancing (for example, Terry joins with a few more classes mastered). Both feature the same graphic style, the same DQ-style translation and the same music.

My recommendation: Doesn’t matter. Why?: Both are pretty much the same, choose according to your wallet or control preferences. I’d choose DS though, since the mobile port can be buggy in some phones (and due to multi-5 too). The SFC version is objectively better (better atmosphere, much prettier graphics, can recruit monsters like in V), but it doesn’t have an official translation and the fan-translation covers 95% of it (but you can beat the main story, though).

Note about the Zenithian Trilogy (IV - VI): This trilogy, unlike Erdrick’s trilogy, is loosely connected. Only a few elements connect the games, so they can be played as individual experiences. A few details in VI imply the cronological order is different from the release order.

Dragon Quest VII

Info: Longest entry in the series. It is also the only DQ game with time-travel so far. The story is divided in islands, each of which is unlocked after completing a small puzzle made of shards/fragments. This game features the class system from VI, but extended.

The story starts in the only island in the world, but with the help of Prince Kiefer and Maribel, the player unravels the mysteries of an eerie abandoned shrine, which transports them into another island in the past. The party must solve the problems of the islands in the past to save the islands in the present, and learn what happened with the world and how can they fix it. 

Versions and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest VII (iOS/Android), 2015.

- Dragon Warrior VII: Warriors of Eden for PS1 (E)

Old DW translation.

2.5D.

Only an NPC can help you find shards/fragments.

Better puzzles at the beginning.

- Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past for 3DS (EFIGS)

New DQ translation.

Fully 3D.

There are many ways to find fragments: a radar, a fairy npc, a menu option... 

Dumbed down puzzles at the beginning.

Faster class mastering and better balanced class system (making the monster classes relevant).

Traveller tablets / free DLC tablets.

The JP version of the 3DS remake uses orchestral soundtrack, but the Western version doesn’t. It can be restored with a hacked 3DS, apparently. The Western release also added some lag in the menus. 

My recommendation: “Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past” for 3DS (EFIGS). Why?: Firstly because of the multi-5 text, but also for the QoL improvements, specifically the faster class mastering and fragment radar.

Btw, the 3DS version is the only one in Europe.

Note: There is a patch for the 3DS that adds the orchestral soundtrack. (You need a CFW on your 3DS.)

Dragon Quest VIII

Info: First fully-3D (non-remake) game of the series. It had various changes: firstly, the story focused on a main plot. Secondly, each character had a few learning paths, which could be followed by allocating Skill Points, earned by leveling up, and that at certain milestones would teach them new skills, spells and passive bonuses. Other changes include the Monster Arena (which plays a bit like the Dragon Quest Monsters arenas), having orchestral music ingame and voice acting (these two things were only present in the western PS2 version), having the alchemy pot and some more innovations. 

The story follows a young guard and a bandit, who are helping a cursed king and his daughter to catch the culprit of their curse. They follow him around the world, finding some interesting partners along the way.

Versions and features:

- Dragon Quest VIII: (The) Journey of the Cursed King for PS2 (EFIGS)

Voice acting.

Orchestrated music.

“Beautiful” but slow menus.

Pink super saiyan. (This was introduced in the western releases to get the attention of DBZ fans.)

Pretty graphics.

- Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King for iOS and Android (EF)

Instant alchemy.

Portrait mode only.

No voice acting nor orchestrated music.

- Dragon Quest VIII: (The) Journey of the Cursed King for 3DS (EFIGS)

New playable characters, scenarios (& optional endings), items, and dungeons (one is post-game, the other is optional before ending the game).

Instant alchemy.

Voice acting.

No orchestral soundtrack. (It’s present in the JP version, and afaik it can be restored with a CFW 3DS.)

Classic DQ menus.

Alternative outfits for everyone, not just 2 characters.

New camera mode & quests.

There are some small changes made by SQEX Japan so the game would keep the same rating it got on the PS2 years ago (For All Ages). Nothing game changing.

Free DLC items.

Some re-balancing.

Speed-up option for battles.

On New 3DS, the C-stick can be used to rotate the camera. (There is no performance improvement on N3DS.)

My recommendation: “Dragon Quest VIII: (The) Journey of the Cursed King” for 3DS (EFIGS). Why?: The improvements, QoL enhancements and new features make it worth it despite it being inferior graphically to its PS2 original release. The music change doesn’t affect you a lot if you do not play using headphones. Also, the “censorship” is irrelevant since Jessica is 17 and the two other scenes don’t change that much anyway. If that’s your main concern, I may suggest you check your priorities, my dude. 🤷‍♂️

Note: There are patches for the 3DS version that give Jessica her PS2 outfits and put the orchestral soundtrack in. (You need a CFW on your 3DS.)

Dragon Quest IX

Info: In some aspects this game is a throwback to Dragon Quest III. The player can customize the party, their aspect and their equipment. It mixes DQIII’s classes and VIII’s skill trees. As VIII, it also has (instant) alchemy. This is the first main DQ game that allows playing with friends (up to 4, in local multiplayer). Unlike almost all the other games (except I and III), there aren’t set characters in this game*.  In this game, you can choose the gender of the main character. (Note: And the gender of any character you create). IX has tons of throwbacks and cameos from the other heroes (as Inn Guests and costumes) and villains (as Bosses) from the main series and a character from DQ Swords.

*There ARE some set characters, but to be able to get them you need to have access to the DLC quests (the DS and Wii servers are dead right now, so you need to edit your file or connect with someone who has them unlocked) and have beaten the main story.

The story in this game follows a young celestrian (a guardian angel, basically) in their quest to find out what happened to their realm. They must travel around the world, helping as many people as possible while getting clues of what or who is responsable for the fall of their land.

Versions and features:

- Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies for DS (EFIGS)

My recommendation: There is only the one version of this title. Its best enjoyed with friends, and/or if you like roleplaying/creating your own characters.

Dragon Quest XI

Info: Return to the classic formula after the multiplayer-focused IX and X. 

The story focuses on a boy, who is the reincarnation of a Hero, who is acused of being “the demon’s child”. He has to escape and unravel the mysteries regarding this “demon’s child / hero’s child” controversy with a cast of great characters.

The most interesting part about this title was how it was made in three different styles: 2D, “chibi” 3D and full-scale 3d. The first one, tries to emulate the graphics of the original DQ6 and the SFC remake of DQ3; the second one tries to go for the aesthetic of DQ9 and the remake of DQ7; and the third one gives us the logical step after DQ8. The first two modes are only present on the Japan-only 3DS version, while the later is present in all the UE4 versions (PS4, PC and probably Switch). As each of them tries to emulate a different era of the series, there are gameplay mechanics that change. For instance, when playing in 2D mode (3DS), the items won’t have an image when looking at the inventory. Meanwhile, they will while playing in 3D (3DS). Or the way boomerang works: in the 3DS version, they hit from left to right, like in previous titles; while on the UE4 versions the player can choose which enemy it should hit first. (Since the 3DS version is staying Japan-only i’ll avoid making more comparisons to it.)

Official site

Versions and features: - Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age (3DS, 2017)

- Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age for PS4

- Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age for PC / Steam

Same version as on PS4

Probably more resolution and fps

Probably mods

- Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age for Switch 

???

Nobody knows anything about it so far, except it’s confirmed for all regions.

My recommendation: Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age for PS4 or PC. Why?: So far, we’re only getting “one version” on two platforms, so it’s up to the player to decide their platform of choice. I’d personally choose PS4 because the game was designed with a PS4 in mind.  If you can read japanese, the 3DS version is also a great option. I personally prefer it to the UE4 version.

And that’s all for the main series.

Dragon Quest X is a MMO for Wii, Wii U, PC, 3DS and Mobile, which will be soon available for PS4 and Switch in Japan. There are no plans for a Western release of this game for now. (There is a western localization campaign, started on October 2016. @imutone recently started a complementary campaign to send physical letters to SQEX. Here’s the latest update on the campaign. Make sure to join it!)

Now, lets move to the Spinoffs:

Dragon Quest Monsters: Terry’s Wonderland

Info: Inspired by DQV’s monster recruitment feature and Pokémon’s success, this was the first attempt to make a Monster-Catching DQ game. It features Terry and Milly (called Milayou in the old DWM translation) from DQVI as the protagonists (Note: Only Terry is playable, Milly is a secondary character). 

In this game, you have to travel worlds to get stronger monsters to be able to win in the Starry Night tournament, which grants a wish to its winner, and save your kidnapped sister.

Versions and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest Monsters 1 · 2 (PS1), 2002; Dragon Quest Monsters: Terry’s Wonderland 3D (3DS), 2012. [There is fantranslation for this remake.]

- Dragon Warrior Monsters for GBC (E)

Randomly generated dungeons.

All monsters can follow you, up to 3 at a time.

3 vs 3 battles.

Hundreds of DQ monsters, either from DQI-VI or new.

My recommendation: There is only the one version available for us.

Dragon Quest Monsters 2: Tara’s Adventure / Coby’s Journey

Info: In this sequel, they went the monster catching Pokémon way: two versions with exclusive monsters. Each version offers a protagonist: The young Tara, or her older brother Coby. This game offered monster trade.

In these games, you have to travel between worlds to save your new home, an island, while becoming a better monster master.

Versions and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest Monsters 1 · 2 (PS1), 2002; Dragon Quest Monsters 2 (3DS), 2014.

- Dragon Warrior Monsters 2 for GBC (E)

Comes in two packages: Tara’s Adventure and Coby’s Journey. In the first one you play as a girl (Tara) and in the other as a boy (Coby). They’re sibilings.

Set worlds. (Not randomly-generated as in DQM1.)

All monsters can follow you (all have sprites), up to 3 at a time.

3 vs 3 battles.

Hundreds of DQ monsters, either from DQI-VII or new.

Local multiplayer.

My recommendation: There is only the one version available for us.

There was DQM game for GBA, Caravan Heart, which was Japan-only. Quite different from the first two DQM/DWM games, but as DQM1/DWM1, it has a child version of a character of the main series as the protagonist: Kiefer from VII. [There is a fantranslation for this game.]

Dragon Quest Monsters: Joker

Info: This is a reboot of the DQM formula. Coming after the Japan-only DQM Caravan Heart that mixed DQVII’s monster hearts with the DQM formula, Joker tried something new, but in a similar direction of the GBC classics. In this game, the young monster scout must get stronger to become a master monster scout and also unfold the mystery of the Incarnus, a singular monster.

Versions and features:

Dragon Quest Monsters Joker for DS (EFIGS)

Monster from DQI-VIII, or new.

3 vs 3 battles.

New and updated mechanics (the skill system is inspired by VIII’s).

Local and Wifi multiplayer (Note: As of 2014, Nintendo shut down the DS and Wii servers).

My recommendation: There is only the one version of this game.

Dragon Quest Monsters: Joker 2

Info: Carries over many mechanics from Joker, but improves them. The biggest improvement is in the UI, which later became the base for all the 3DS DQM games and remakes. The story follows a young monster scout whose airship crushes into a mysterious island and how he and his team of monsters unfolds the mystery of the island to get back to civilization.

Versions and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest Joker 2 Professional (DS), 2011. [There is a fantranslation for this title.]

- Dragon Quest Monsters Joker 2 for DS (EFIGS)

Over 300 monster, mostly from DQI-IX, or new.

3 vs 3 battles.

DQMJ’s mechanics and UI updated and vastly improved.

Local and Wifi multiplayer (Note: As of 2014, Nintendo shut down the DS and Wii servers).

(Local) Connectivity with DQVI and IX for DS for special monsters from those games.

My recommendation: There is only the one version available for us.

There’s a third Joker game for 3DS, called “Dragon Quest Monsters Joker 3” in Japan, released in April 2016. Said game got a “Professional” version with various enhancements and new monsters in early February 2017. As of March 2017, none of the 3DS DQM games has been announced for the West. 

Dragon Quest: Torneko no Daibouken 2

Info: Second DQ Mystery Dungeon game, and as the first one (which only released in Japan), it follows the famous merchant from DQIV: Torneko Taloon. 

In this title, players must outthink enemies who are often faster or stronger than them, efficiently using weapons and magic when the odds are against them. What's more, in order to succeed they will also test the limits of Torneko's insatiable appetite.

Versions and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest: Torneko no Daibouken 2 (GBA), 2001.

- World of Dragon Warrior: Torneko: The Last Hope for PS1 (E)

Play as Torneko.

It is the only Mystery Dungeon game set in the DQ universe we got.

This game uses randomly-generated dungeons.

My recommendation: There is only the one version available for us.

There were two other games of this series available in Japan: one for SFC (which was the first DQ spinoff and the first Mystery Dungeon game ever created) and another for PS2 and GBA. There is a fourth DQ Mystery Dungeon game, which doesn’t focus on Torneko anymore, but on the childhood of DQVIII’s Yangus and Red. This is Japan-only too.

Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime

Info: This is the second entry of the “Slime MoriMori” series. It got its American release in 2005. There are tank battles aside from the regular “slime vs the world” fights. This was the last DQ game to get released in America but not in Europe.

It is an action game in which we control a Slime called Rocket, who has to fight the Plattypunks to save the slime town of Boingburg. 

Versions and features:

- Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime for DS (E) [Trailer]

Play as a slime (named Rocket)!

Tank Battles.

Lots of puns.

My recommendation: There is only the one version.

The other games in this subseries are Japan-only, as well as its manga. The first game (GBA) doesn’t have tank battles, and the third one (3DS) replaces them with ship battles.

Dragon Quest Swords: The Masked Queen and the Tower of Mirrors 

Info: First person on-rails action game. The Wii’s nunchuck works as your shield and the Wiimote acts as your Sword. All the major characters are named after swords, like Claymore or Fleurette. In this game, you have to save the kingdom of Avalonia from an evil demon named Xiphos.

Versions and features:

- Dragon Quest Swords for Wii (EFIGS) [Trailer]

On rails.

Use the Wiimote as your sword and the Nunchuk as your shield.

Likeable support cast.

My recommendation: There is only a version of this game.

Dragon Quest Wars

Info: A small turn-based strategy game for DSi. Think of it as a light mix of chess and Fire Emblem (not really, but its not 100% chess either).

Versions and features:

- Dragon Quest Wars for DSi (EFIGS) [Trailer]

Multiplayer: Up to 4 players.

Use some DQ monsters as your units.

My recommendation: There is only one version of this game. As the DS servers got shut down in 2014, so the only way to get it nowadays is using a 3DS.

Honestly? I wouldn’t recommend spending a cent on this. 

Fortune Street / Boom Street

Info: First “Itadaki Street” game to release outside Japan. This is the second game in the Itadaki Street series to mix Dragon Quest with Super Mario Bros. The gameplay is a bit of a mix of Mario Party, DQ’s Treasures n' Trapdoors (T’n’T) and the classic boardgame Monopoly.

Versions and features:

- Fortune Street / Boom Street for Wii (EFIGS) [Trailer]

Play as characters from the main series like Slime, Dragonlord, Alena or Patty; and characters from the Super Mario Bros universe such as Peach, Luigi, Donkey Kong or Waluigi.

Multiplayer up to 4 players.

Wifi modes. (Note: As of 2014, Nintendo shut down the DS and Wii servers).

My recommendation: There is only the one version.

Dragon Quest Heroes: The World Tree's Woe and the Blight Below

Info: First entry in the action-based Heroes subseries. It is a collaboration with Dynasty Warriors creator Tecmo Koei. This was also the first DQ for a gaming device to come West between 2011 and 2015, quite an honor!  In this game, you can choose the gender of the main character. (Note: You can choose between Luceus and Aurora, but the one you don’t choose is still playable, the one you choose will be always in your party).

It a mix of Dragon Quest mechanics with Dynasty Warrior mechanics: parties of 4 characters, MP, tension, tons of enemies, just a handful of attacks per character... Story-wise is a quite simple light vs darkness story. 

Monsters who were peaceful have started attacking humans. The player, the captain of the kingdom’s army have to find out why, battling hordes of monsters in the way.

Versions and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest Heroes (PS3), 2015.

- Dragon Quest Heroes for PS4 (EFIGS) [Trailer]

Stable framerate.

Can’t get all the preorder bonuses.

- Dragon Quest Heroes for PC (EFIGS) [Trailer]

Better settings.

Unstable framerate.

My recommendation: The PS4 version. Why?: It was made with the PS4 in mind and has stable framerate. Also, Tecmo Koei’s PC ports are rather infamous...

Dragon Quest Heroes II

Info: Second entry in the action-based Heroes subseries. Doesn’t have any connection with the first one, and fixes or adds what the people wanted in the first game, like a worldmap, (online) multiplayer, or less tower-defense missions.

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest Heroes II: Twin Kings and the Prophecy's End (PS3, PSV), 2016.

Confirmed versions for the West:

- Dragon Quest Heroes II for PS4 and Steam (EFIGS) [Trailer] (Note: Western release dates: PS4: April 25th in NA and April 28th in EU; Steam: April 22nd in both.)

My recommendation: Still not out in the West, but the PS4 version. Why?: Firstly, Tecmo Koei PC ports are infamous for a reason; secondly, the PS4 version was the main version in Japan (and the one i have already played and enjoyed); and thirdly, because its the only one that has a physical release and that reversible cover is rather cool.

In May 2016, Square Enix released a sequel in Japan called “Dragon Quest Heroes II: Twins Kings and Ending of the Prophecy” for PS3, PS4 and PSV. It includes some upgrades from the feedback they got from the first game, including: having a world map, having multiplayer and being able to have more than four skills per character. On the 1st December 2016, Best Buy leaked its localization. On the 8th of the same month, Square Enix announced the western release dates for the PS4 version: April 25th (NA), and April 28th (EU). A Steam version is also releasing on April 25h (both NA & EU) Square Enix announced on February 22nd 2017. [The Vita version isn’t profitable for SQEX, so they will skip localizing it.] (x). The games’s director hinted to a third game on the PlayStation Awards 2016. (x)

Dragon Quest Builders

Info: “What if you mixed Dragon Quest and Minecraft and got a legit good game?”. In this game, you can choose the gender of the main character. (Note: you can change it and any character customization option anytime you want from the setting accessed from the main menu)

At the last part of DQ1 the player is given a choice. One option lets you continue and the other gives you a game over. DQB explores that option, the story in which the Dragonlord won. You, a builder chosen by the goddess Rubiss, must rebuild the land of Alefgard. 

Versions available and features:

- Japan-only releases: Dragon Quest Builders: Revive Alefgard (PS3), 2016.

- Dragon Quest Builders for PS4 (EFIGS) [Trailer]

High quality graphics.

Better draw distance.

Better share options (can make videos and up to 4 image in tweets).

- Dragon Quest Builders for PSV (EFIGS) [Trailer]

Digital only (it is only about 270mb, though. The Asian physical release includes English.).

Portability.

Poor sharing options (screenshots with Start + PS Button. If you share it with the twitter app, you can only choose 1 image. If you want to share more than 1 at a time, you have to transfer your screenshots to your computer).

- Dragon Quest Builders for Switch (EFIGS) (*Releases in Spring 2018)

Its more akin to the PS4 version than the PSV version.

Has some exclusive content, like the DQ1 cartdrige work table and the Sabercub mount.

Portable.

My recommendation: Depends on your tastes. Why?: One is great for its portability (Vita) and the other looks way better and has better sharing methods (PS4).

On August 2016, Square Enix stated there were possibilities of this game getting a Nintendo Switch version. (x). (They announced it officially on the 14th of September of 2017. Will release next spring in all regions.) On September of the same year, they said a sequel was being considered. (x). Later, in the PlayStation Awards, they hinted to a sequel again. (x) 

Dragon Quest Builders 2 was announced for Switch and PS4 on the 6th of August of 2017, with no release window announced so far.

Definitive version of each game (TL;DR)

Summarizing, this is the list of definitive versions of each DQ game -that got official western releases- again, in my opinions:

Main series:

Dragon Quest I: Mobile

Dragon Quest II: Mobile

Dragon Quest III: GBC OR Mobile (more content vs newer translation)

Dragon Quest IV: DS OR Mobile (more languages vs english party chat)

Dragon Quest V: DS OR Mobile (they have different prices and buttons)

Dragon Quest VI: DS OR Mobile (they have different prices and buttons)

Dragon Quest VII: 3DS

Dragon Quest VIII: 3DS

Dragon Quest IX: DS

Spinoffs:

Dragon Warrior Monsters: GBC

Dragon Warrior Monsters 2: GBC (Any version)

Dragon Quest Monsters Joker: DS

Dragon Quest Monsters Joker 2: DS

Torneko: The Last Hope: PS1

Rocket Slime: DS (This one didn’t release in EU)

Dragon Quest Swords: Wii

Fortune Street / Boom Street: Wii

Dragon Quest Wars: 3DS (DSi can’t access the internet any more)

Dragon Quest Heroes: PS4

Dragon Quest Builders: PS4 or PSV (higher resolution vs portability)

Dragon Quest Heroes 2: PS4 or Steam (unless the PC port is a bad port)

Soooooo, where should i start? (TL;DR 2)

Choose one of these, but i highly recommend VIII on 3DS.

Dragon Quest IV: DS OR Mobile (more languages vs english party chat)

Dragon Quest VIII: 3DS

Dragon Quest Monsters Joker 2: DS

Dragon Quest Builders: PS4 or PSV (higher resolution vs portability)

Special thanks

Thanks to my SO (♥︎), @imperial-scrolls-of-honor, @hawelo92, @imutone and @moguel for their help / corrections / suggestions.

Thanks to Yuji Horii, Koichi Sugiyama, Akira Toriyama, Koichi Nakamura, Noriyoshi Fujimoto, and all the staff that has worked or works in this marvelous series. And also thanks to Nintendo and Square Enix, who worked hard to bring these games to the West.

[strawberry-jules]

the seventh

i’m back! i’ve been on a wild journey, emotionally. obviously, it’s just barely 2021, god knows we can’t leave our towns.

anyway.

i’ve been doing a lot of asking myself the hard questions i wasn’t necessarily ready for. why do i have to be in constant motion? what am i running from? why do i struggle with commitment to places and occupations and ideas for my future? what do i keep coming back to between these flittings? who am i? how does my sexuality play into my future? DOES it play into my future? how does coming out change me, and why? why do i feel the sudden need to reinvent everything about myself, when this is supposed to be a time to discover me?

that barrage of questions were pretty much the sequence they came to me and pushed me to the decision i’m about to make. however, i think there are some aspects i need to touch on first. 

i realized a little bit ago that i’m simply reliving times from my past that felt like truly life altering times. moments where my life might’ve changed course, through young self discovery or just momentous occasions. the main one i’ve been stuck in for a few weeks is the one with julia lay, where i first encountered my sexuality without knowing it. reflecting on it is making me do all the discovery and growing up that goes with it in a few short weeks, rather than the 2-3 years in which it took the events to unfold. it’s been a lot. what came of it, though, is realizing i don’t want to have a drastic change in myself that’s based on my sexuality. i experienced enough of that forcing myself to be straight, i don’t want to force myself to swing the pendulum back, mid-swing, when i’m perfectly happy letting it ride out its course while i figure out what i want.

i have reached the next stage: summer of 2019. truly, this started in the spring semester of my freshman year, january of 2019, but summer pushed it to new places. i felt this constant desire to be in my car, driving up into the mountains, listening to soft music and reflecting and escaping. i preferred going alone, finding coffee shops and cafes to read books or just sit on my phone for a bit, finding places to pull over and read a book, going camping and for walks and engaging myself with my life and with nature simultaneously. i lived moment to moment, perfectly happy in my responsibilities and how much i loved life. then summer came. a month working in a real office, a real 9-5, being a clerk! i drank shitty coffee and filed while listening to podcasts all day, and as any sort of career, it sucked ass, and i would never. but for an 18 year old, that was the dream. i was finally treated as an adult in a position of actual importance. i had to have a full background check, i had access to thousands of people’s very personal information. i was an adult, i was valued and respected and made good money. then we whisked off to europe. i checked off more of my country bucket list in one swing than i could have imagined seeing in 10 years. i felt this insane rush of being alive. these places we were in, so high and cold and nordic with strong seas and snow and tundra grasses mixed with trees and flowers and bees and fjords echoing the sounds of docks and the cool breeze blowing through an icelandic belltower and the traditional brickwork buildings we ran past in a sudden rainstorm in belgium; i felt home. standing on open moors on the ring of kerry, climbing ruined castle walls on the shore of southampton, walking the canals in amsterdam, drinking a cup of earl grey tea and journaling about the thrill of my day to day existence, so fresh to me and so full of potential, it felt so right. i met michael, i practiced minimalism and got a job as a supplemental instructor for my favorite class of my freshman year the following fall. i started exercising and continuing to take my mountain drives and engaged in all the unique classes i never considered being interested in until i let myself expand my horizons. i learned a new language and got dumped and discovered my sexuality and was so broke that i bought gas in quarters and i eventually made it home to my parents. that was all in a year. my life was independent and free and it was all up to me. now i’m back with my parents, in a pandemic, struggling to find the motivation to go to work, much less believe in a life ahead of me. 

that’s where reflecting on the moments that made me, me, became so important. figuring out why i loved julia lay so much, what that first love means for me moving forward, and how i can learn to make that a part of me without letting it overbear my personality, like i used to. a ho phase is not something i want to repeat. sex with men was meaningless because i didn’t want it. i want to respect my body and my sexuality now, and for me, that means letting it take a back seat while i know who i am without my sexuality. i haven’t given myself time to fully become me, without encumbering myself with the weight of a sexual identity. and who am i without that sexual identity? what do i want from life, and what do i consider success? is is working as a PA? i really don’t think so. the idea becomes more and more unappealing as i realize that i don’t want a family young. i want to give myself time to live. i’m young and selfish, and that’s okay. so, what does life on my own terms look like? how do I chase that life I felt so intensely a year and a half ago? 

I’m starting to think it looks a little like this:

i want to do a study abroad program or just study abroad and get the fuck out of the US for a little while, then eventually come back and continue to live on my own for a year, maybe near seattle or maybe in logan or maybe outside denver, and try to build a life that i find meaningful and successful and exhilarating. i think i want to be a flight attendant, maybe try to build a travel blog so that i can eventually go back to working in coffee or something while i fix up a sprinter van and start traveling that way more. here’s the timeline i’m thinking, and i’m open to flexibility. that’s something i want to start working on.

i’m going to change my major one last time, i think. i might do a degree in english or writing, and minor in a foreign language, preferably german. also, i’m not going to try to account for family or an S/O that might appear along the way. these goals are for me on my own right now. if plans change, i’ll adjust. but i want a solid plan.

jan-dec 2021: focus on work and school, occasional small trips and lots of hiking. prioritizing exercise as a part of my future is important to me. this means: stopping smoking. i’m actually pretty serious about this. i want to spend my money that i’m not saving on investing in myself. going on small trips, buying myself gear to backpack and camp, to invest in my relationship with nature and ability to be independent and self sustain. at first, my daily goal will be to accomplish 3 of the 6 daily priorities: school, work, exercise, reading, friends/family, chores. if i go to work, then come home and go for a run, and finish off the evening writing a paper that’s due, i don’t have to do my laundry tonight. the next day, i could go to work, then come home and throw my laundry in the washer, head out to los osos to hike, come back and throw it in the dryer and knock out some school reading, then i can read for pleasure if i want to, or i can veg and watch TV, even though i want to reduce the amount of time i spend doing things like watching tv or youtube. small give and take. i’ll eventually aim for a productivity level of 4-5/6 on a good day, but i’m okay with averaging 3-4 a day.

jan 2022: be leaving for wherever by now. gotta get this part figured out in a couple weeks.

dec 2023 or may 2024: be graduating with a degree. i don’t want to see anything less than a degree in my hand by the time i’m 24. i want to be involved and engaged with my daily routine and see how it fits into my bigger picture. i struggle to be a fine details person, and that’s something i want to change.

by july 2024: start a job as a flight attendant or something similarly customer service and travel centric. use this as a way to build a travel following.

by dec 2028: have a plan, girl. you’re 28. do it yourself.

that’s all i’ve got so far, but it’s refreshing to not try to plan every step. just the major ones, like school or no school and where and why, ie changing my major at asu so that i can become a flight attendant and hopefully have a degree relevant to something i want to do later in life. who knows what that will be? not me, and that’s okay. 

[fxcfdlabo]

AAAFx(International) is a forex broker compatible with ZuluTrade, which is a tool of copy trading.

What kind of broker is AAAFx?

AAAFx was founded in 2008 and its headquarters is in Athens, Greece (member of the European Union). AAAFx has both AAAFx International and AAAFx EU. Currently we are employing 80+ people, and within the past two years the company has successfully opened thousands of live accounts from 176 countries globally. We offer in-house live customer support-trading desk in 11 languages. Our main focuses are to offer both an exceptional trading experience and outstanding customer support. AAAFx is regulated in Europe, registration no. 2/540/17.2.2010. Tax Identification Number is 998281207. AAAFx is an online Forex and CFD ECN (electronic communications network) broker launched in 2008. They are headquartered and regulated in Greece, being one of only two Forex/CFD brokers who are truly Greek. As they are regulated in Greece by the Hellenic Capital Market Commission, they are also fully regulated in all European Union member states. AAAFx offers traders the opportunity to trade a reasonably wide range of instruments wrapped as CFDs (Contracts for Difference), even including some bonds and soft commodities. In addition to Bonds, AAAFx offer trading in 36 Forex currency pairs and crosses, 10 global equity indices, the commodities of gold, silver, crude oil, natural gas, and copper, and all the major cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin paired again the U.S. Dollar. Minimum margin requirements differ, and of course, maximum leverage at a broker regulated within the European Union is restricted to 30 to 1 by ESMA regulations. We offer an in-house customer support - trading desk 24 hours/ 5 days a week, in 13 languages as well as:

A 10% Bonus on your initial deposit

Reduced Spreads that are among the lowest

Full refund policy for trade execution issues

Direct integration with Zulutrade, the largest social trading network with more than half a million users and 100.000 registered strategies

Expert Advisors can be used

No re-quotes. Prices are filled with just one click.

ECN Broker - No Dealing Desk Execution ensures our Customers’ best interest

ABOUT AAAFxFoundation AAAFX was found in 2008 Homepagehttps://international.aaafx.comHeadquartersAAAFX maintains headquarters in Athens, GreeceIslamic AccountsAAAFX supports Islamic Accounts -YES-Segregated Client Accounts -YES-Regulated AAAFX is regulated by HCMC (Greece ID-998281207) and MiFID (EU ID-2/540/17.2.2010)LanguagesBroker TypeECNCFD TradingYESPlatforms MetaTrader4, ZTP Auto-Trading, ZuluTrade, MT4 Mobile AppsAAAFX ZuluTradeTrading Time ZoneGMT (UTC+2)Demo Account YESEUR/USD Spread AAAFX minimum spread on EUR/USD is 0.9 pip and typical is 1.9 pip (full asset index below)Trading CommissionsNoLeverageup to 500:1Smallest Trade Size1000 UnitsScalping YESMinimum Account $300 or €250Deposit/Withdrawal MethodsBank Wire Transfer, Credit and Debit Cards, Bitcoin, MoneyBookers (Skrill) EPS, iDeal, GiroPay, DirectPay/Sofort, TeleIngreso, Przelewy24, QiwiWithdrawal FeesYes, $25 flat fee applies for all withdrawalsMinimum Account $300 or €250Acceptance of US ClientsNoAcceptance of Japanese ClientsNo (in AAAFx International) Yes (in AAAFx EU)

Accounts

AAAFx differs from most brokers in offering clients an ECN account model. There is only one account type for retail clients, without any of the gimmicks which many brokers typically use to promote spurious distinctions, although there is a choice of platforms. Opening an account with AAAFx requires a minimum deposit of $300. As AAAFx operates an ECN model, clients are charged both a spread and a commission on all transactions. Spreads are variable and begin at a low of 0.2 pips on the benchmark EUR/USD currency pair. Commissions are of course fixed and equate to another 0.8 pips on EUR/USD which means you can expect to pay about 1 pip for every round-trip trade in the EUR/USD currency pair. This is competitive, and in fact for a deposit of $300 is truly good value. Commissions for institutional clients are considerably lower, with institutional accounts charged approximately 70% on commissions, due to their large trade sizes. The spreads and commissions on non-Forex assets are also broadly competitive. Unusually for a Forex/CFD brokerage, AAAFx publish their overnight swap rates. They look mostly OK and are positive where there are significant interest rate differentials, which is a positive sign, and as it should be. Swap-free Islamic accounts, and demo accounts, are also available, as is typically the case with Forex/CFD brokerages. All accounts offer a minimum trade size of 1 micro-lot (0.01 full lots). Scalping and hedging are allowed, and automated trading is possible. This combination of advantages is something that is increasingly hard to find, especially with a Forex/CFD broker regulated in the E.U. such as AAAFx. There is no choice of trading platform if you do not want to use the ZuluTrade platform, as the only alternative is MetaTrader 4. Fortunately, this is the world’s most popular and common Forex trading platform. AAAFx is a partner of ZuluTrade, which allows its customers to effectively operate in a way that takes advantage of all of ZuluTrade’s social trading and trade copying features.

3 Trading Platforms

AAAFx offers us 2 best trading platforms "ZTP" and "MT4" that suit us.

ZTP

・State-of-the-art Technology Provides you with a fully-fledged web-based Trading Station for Forex and CFDs manual trading. Offers technical charts (Candlesticks, OHLC, lines) and indicators (Trend, Oscillators, volatility, volumes, Bill Williams etc.) you can tailor according to your trading requirements. In addition, ZuluScripts allows trading robots to be used or developed via your own algorithms to run your trading strategies. Your account is shielded at all times against connectivity issues and can run EAs uninterruptedly without the need for a VPS. The best choice for those who wish to trade with an all-in-one platform that is currently offered together with your ZuluTrade account. Products Traded：FOREX, CFDS Methods of Trade：MANUAL, ALGORITHMIC VIA ZULUSCRIPTS™ Platform：WEB-BASED

MetaTrader 4 (MT4)

・The standard The AAAFx International MetaTrader 4 provides you with the most essential tools and resources needed to analyze the Market and improve your Forex and CFDs manual trading performance. Offers opportunities to traders of all skill levels: advanced technical analysis, flexible trading system, algorithmic trading, Expert Advisors and mobile applications. Smallest Trade Size: 1000 Units Trailing Stop: Enabled by default on Live accounts The Platform is offered with or without ZuluTrade and requires installation. Download here. Products Traded：FOREX, CFDS Trade：MANUAL, ALGORITHMIC, EXPERT ADVISORS Platform：WINDOWS BASED AND REQUIRES INSTALLATION

MetaTrader Mobile

The MetaTrader 4 and platform apps can be used on iPhones, iPads, Multi-Terminal, and all Android devices.

6 Features of AAAFx

There are 6 features of AAAFx. ・A very competitive spread/commission offering, especially for small depositors. ・A reasonably wide range of instruments available for trading: Forex currency pairs, global equity indices, gold, silver, crude oil, bonds, and cryptocurrencies. ・An ECN trading model. ・Negative balance protection. ・Regulated by a major industry center (E.U.). ・AAAFx is a well-established firm with a well-earned reputation to protect.

Excellent compatibility with Zulutrade

In telling the details of AAAFX, it is the existence of the automatic copy trading system "Zulutrade" which should not be ignored. This "Zulutrade" is available for free at AAAFX. Most of those who open an account at AAAFX are aiming for this "Zuletrade".

"Zulutrade" automatically manages our funds even when we are asleep.

"Zulutrade" is characterized by the fact that the trading signal issued by an excellent trader called a signal provider is instantly reflected in your account. We can buy or sell the same as high performance traders around the world just by choosing which traders we synchronize. Once we decide which trader we synchronize, it's okay to leave managing our funds untouched without logging in to our account extremely. Zulutrade manages our assets automatically. EA(=Expert Advisor) seems to be difficult because of setting programs. But AAAFX is very popular for people who do not have confidence in trading forex manually or those who want to have an account for the automatic trading account as a sub account as well as accounts for manual trading.

Even if traders are excellent, they will surely drawdown someday. By combining several service providers and forming portfolios, then, we can reduce that risk. As one of the features of ZuluTrade, all providers are cloud services running on the server side of ZuluTrade. There is no need to carry out troublesome such as installation on the personal computer. Also, even if the PC is turned off, trading will automatically take place at the signature of the provider you designated. Extremely speaking, even if you do not have a computer, you can use ZuluTrade if you can operate from an internet cafe or smartphone. A world-class signal provider will repeat automatic trading for 24 hours on your behalf. This dreamlike trading system ZuluTrade is completely available for free.

Here is about Details of ZuluTrade

"

Services of AAAFx

Education

AAAFx has no educational offering. In our view, this is refreshing, as they are focusing on offering a brokerage service instead of using the common tactic of offering low-quality education to suck in new clients with high transaction costs.

Bonuses and Promotions

AAAFx offers 10% Βonus on all of our deposits! If you want to receive Special Bonus Offer, you should read the following Terms and Conditions. The Profit Sharing Accounts Program offered by AAAFx International has been welcomed with great enthusiasm and has aroused a great deal of interest among our clients. We offer a 10% Bonus for each received deposit. Below, are the Special Bonus Offer defined terms and conditions: Both Existing and New clients are qualified for the Special Bonus. Both Classic and Profit Sharing accounts are qualified for the Special Bonus There is a maximum incentive bonus of $3,000 per account (please see round turn lot table above). The Special Bonus expires and will be automatically removed from an account, if it is not released within a period of 45 or 90 days (depending on the offer) from the date that it was credited. The Special Bonus cannot be transferred between accounts. Funds transferred between accounts are not considered deposits and are therefore not eligible for the Special Bonus offer. The Special Bonus is credited in the investment account after receiving the deposit and will only be released in the equity once the necessary round turn requirements are completed, as mentioned on the relevant table above. Round turn lot requirements are calculated pro rata using weighted averages for each currency pair; please click here for details. You can easily check the status of your bonus(es) by simply visiting the Mybonus section of your account. AAAFx International reserves the right to alter, amend, extend or terminate the Offer at any time without prior notice. AAAFx International will notify you of any changes to the Offer and/or its conditions by updating its website and it is recommended that you check the website regularly for such updates.

Deposits/Withdrawals

Depositing funds into a AAAFx account is an easy and secure process. Both may be made using several different methods, including credit cards, debit cards, Skrill, Neteller, and even Bitcoin. Withdrawals are generally made through the same channel that deposits have been made through.

Conclusion

AAAFX is an ECN Forex Broker found in 2008 that allows US traders as it is compliant with NFA. AAAFX is highly associated with ZuluTrade, actually, it is part of the ZuluTrade Group. AAAFX trading terms may be considered as competitive in general. They offer EURUSD typical at 1.9 pips and minimum at 0.9 pips, without any trading commissions charged. They offer the MT4 platform, the ZTP platform, and of course the ZuluTrade platform which allows Expert Advisors and Social Trading. They offer also apps for iPhone and Android. AAAFX allows Scalping and Hedging. Their order execution is considerably fast without price manipulation. As concerns AAAFX accounts, their minimum deposit of $300 is reasonable while they support several account currencies. Keep in mind that they charge withdrawal fees (25EUR flat). AAAFX asset index is considerably wide and forms one of the main advantages when trading at AAAFX. In general AAAFX is a good Forex Brokerage choice, especially as concerns US traders. AAAFx has an exceptional offering for retail Forex/CFD traders, which smacks of professionalism and integrity, and avoids cheap gimmicks. If you are not looking for an extremely wide range of obscure assets to trade, and want a cheap ECN-style trade offering, these guys are certainly worth seriously considering, especially if you have a relatively small deposit to make.

Open Accounts of AAAFx

source http://kaigai-invest.blog.jp/aaafx/international/introduction