#learning language through songs is a great method!

[useless-catalanfacts]

People who only wanted to hear a cheerful children's song learning about Joan Petit:

Joan Petit quan balla ("When Joan Petit dances") is a traditional Catalan children's song that lists a series of parts of the body to move in the dance. Here's a video where you can hear it and see how it's danced: people hold hands and move in a circle and sing "when Joan Petit dances, he dances with his..." and add a body part, then repeat the chorus. Each time, the body parts add up on a list that gets longer and longer and the dancers have to remember and dance in order.

Like it happens with other elements of Catalan folk culture, it's shared with our sister nation, Occitania. Occitans also sing it, with the same melody, the same dance, and the same lyrics as the Catalan song but with the lyrics in Occitan language instead of Catalan. However, in Occitania it's more common to remember who the song is talking about, which is mostly unknown in Catalonia.

Joan Petit was an Occitan farmer. In the year 1643, he led the Croquant Rebellion against the king of France Louis XIV's strong taxation of poor people to gather money for war. Joan Petit was captured and tortured on the breaking wheel. The reason why the song lists body parts is in reference to this torture method of smashing all body parts slowly making its way to the head. The story was quickly told all through Occitania and even crossed the Pyrenees, and the memory of Joan Petit and his rebellion still lives on in Occitania. Maybe that's why the Occitan song, by changing only a few notes at the end of the sentences, sounds much sadder than the Catalan version.

One of the most iconic Occitan bands, Nadau, wrote a song explaining Joan Petit's life. Under the cut you can listen to the song and read the English translation of the lyrics.

Occitan lyrics and English translation:

En país de Vilafranca / Que s'i lhevèn per milièrs / Contra lo gran rèi de França / En mil shèis cents quaranta tres. Mes òc, praubòt, mes òc praubòt / En mil shèis cents quaranta tres. In the place of Vilafranca / they rose up by the thousands / against the great king of France / in 1643. But yes, poor things, but yes, poor things / in 1643.

Entà har guèrra a la talha / Qu'avèn causit tres capdaus, / L'un Laforca, l'aute Lapalha, / Joan Petit qu'èra lo tresau. Mes òc, praubòt, mes òc, praubòt, / Joan Petit qu'èra lo tresau. To wage war on the taxes / they chose three captains: / one of them was Laforca, the other Lapalha / the third one was Joan Petit. But yes, poor thing, but yes, poor thing / the third one was Joan Petit.

Per tota l'Occitania, / Que'us aperavan croquants, / N'avèn per tota causida, / Que la miseria o la sang. Mes òc praubòt, mes òc praubòt / Que la miseria o la sang. In all Occitania / they called them the Croquants / they didn't have any other choice / than either misery or blood. But yes, poor thing, but yes, poor thing / than misery or blood.

E qu'estón per tròp d'ahida / Venuts per los capulats, / Eths que vivèn de trahida, / Çò qui n'a pas jamei cambiat. Mes òc praubòt, mes òc praubòt, / Çò qui n'a pas jamei cambiat. And because they trusted too much / they were sold by the powerful / [the powerful] lived only of betrayal / a thing that has never changed. But yes, poor thing, but yes, poor thing / a thing that has never changed.

Que'us hiquèn dessús l'arròda, / E que'us croishín tots los òs, / D'aqueth temps qu'èra la mòda / De's morir atau, tròç a tròç. Mes òc praubòt, mes òc praubòt, / De's morir atau, tròç a tròç. They put them on the wheel / and they crushed all their bones. / At that time, it was trendy / to die like this, bit by bit. But yes, poor thing, but yes, poor thing / to die like this, bit by bit.

E qu'estó ua triste dança, / Dab la cama, e lo pè, e lo dit, / Atau per lo rei de França, / Atau que dançè Joan Petit. Mes òc praubòt, mes òc praubòt, / Atau que dançè Joan petit. And it was a sad dance / with the leg, the foot, the finger, / and thus, for the king of France, / danced Joan Petit. But yes, poor thing, but yes, poor thing / thus danced Joan Petit.

E l'istuèra qu'a hèit son viatge, / Qu'a pres camins de cançons, / Camin de ronda taus mainatges, / Mes uei que sabem, tu e jo. Mes òc praubòt, mes òc praubòt, / Mes uei que sabem, tu e jo And the history took its journey / it took paths of songs / and tales for children / but today we know, you and I. But yes, poor thing, but yes, poor thing / but today we know, you and I.

[lucid-loves]

Taste Like Venom ~ Simon "Ghost" Riley Part 3

Pairing: Ghost x assassin!reader (fem!reader, no use of y/n, callsign “Hex”)

Word Count: 3.7k

CW: angst, violence, blood, strong language, scars, enemies to friends to lovers trope, slow burn, fluff, clear attraction and sexual tension, smut later on, reader POV and ghost POV, minors dni, Soap lives in this AU

Let me know if I missed any CWs.

Story Synopsis: After Makarov gets away once again, Laswell decides to force a favor from you, the world’s greatest assassin and best-kept secret. You are now expected to help the 141 with taking down Makarov in addition to playing nice with them. It’s hard to play nice when you have always worked alone. It doesn’t help that one of the team members, Ghost, gets curious about you in each interaction. 

Chapter Synopsis: The great 141 road trip is fine in the beginning, but being on the road for eleven hours clearly gets to everyone, especially you. For once, Ghost tries to show you some genuine compassion without any ulterior motives. 

A/N: Thought that this would not only be a fun part to write, but also a breather to get to develop more character dynamics. Feel free to comment what you think each member of the 141 favorite music genre is! Including your own~

Part 1 ~ Part 2 ~ Part 3 ~ Part 4 ~ Part 5 ~ Part 6 ~ Part 7 ~ Part 8 ~ Part 9 ~ Part 10

Such a long drive was new territory for the boys. They were so used to helicopter rides, armored cars, and jets to take them where they needed to go fast. For their size and stature, the minivan was cramped, slightly rough on the road, and just plain weird. It took a few seat adjustments before everyone was as comfortable as they could be. Save for Gaz. He just prayed that a pit stop was coming soon and someone would be willing to switch seats with him.

For the first hour, the ride was noisy with conversation. Conversation that tried to reel you in. Price, looking through the front windshield, asked you a question. “How do you know where you’re going, Hex?”

“I’ve spent time memorizing road maps around the area. We’re taking a back road. A scenic route. Any other cars on the road would further see this minivan as a family road trip through the country.” You elaborated, your eyes steady on the road ahead. There were a lot of twists and turns on this route, but you knew that it would pay out in the end.

“Hidden in plain sight.” Soap added, his tone showing that he was a bit impressed with the logic of it all. Perhaps you knew what you were doing after all. Without you meaning to or doing anything extraordinary, the group was slowly starting to trust you and your judgment as evidenced by your creative planning. You were becoming quite the leader as well. But, you weren’t completely out of the woods yet. They still kept some of their guards up, just in case.

“There’s a method to the madness. Don’t underestimate the power of assumptions.” You advised, a word of advice that would hopefully stick with them after all of this was over. If they listened, perhaps some problems the world was facing could actually be solved. 

Soap pulled out his phone with the intention of making this trip more enjoyable. Making sure that his VPN you required was turned on, he began to browse through songs using his music app. Once he added his favorite songs, he passed it to his captain. “Whatever you want, Cap. No genre limits.”

Price took the phone and rubbed his chin for a second in thought, his brick-brown beard moving with his fingers. Eventually, he added some songs to the playlist. Once he was satisfied, he passed the phone to Gaz who lit up at the idea. “Now it’s gonna feel like a real road trip!”

A few more songs were added before the phone was passed all the way up to Ghost. Hesitantly, Ghost added his own favorite songs. His teammates knew him decently well. They’re even seen his face before under the mask. However, there were still things they were learning about when it came to his personal life. One of which was his favorite kind of music. Thankfully, he was willing to share that information, trusting his team more and more with each passing day. 

He looked at you when he was done, wondering if he should even offer. Having watched the interactions from the mirror, you decided to stay out of it. When Ghost was done, you just shook your head for a silent “no.” Simon imagined that you were rejecting the idea in your mind based on the warning look you gave him. Don’t even try. That made him really wonder what kind of music you liked. The records back home were incredibly diverse. But what was your favorite? Jazz? Metal?

The phone was passed back to Soap. It was quite a diverse playlist. He didn’t realize that his team had such different tastes, but it just made him excited to give it a listen. He connected it to the car’s bluetooth and hit the shuffle button. Ghost went ahead and switched the car to bluetooth mode for him. Almost immediately, the car filled up with music, starting with one of Price’s songs. 

Instead of tuning out, you tuned in. Very much so. Small details, even favorite songs, could say a lot about a person. You were learning about the men now. Not for the sake of potential friendship, no. For the sake of information for potential future manipulation if things went sideways. You always prepared for the worst, even when times seemed like the best. 

The discussion carried forward, now with the ease of real music in the background. Gaz decided to take the plunge and ask you a question. “So. . . Hex. . . You lived a long time out in the woods. How did you survive on your own? There doesn’t seem to be a grocery store for miles around.”

You adjusted your sitting position, trying to get comfier in the driver’s seat. If you were going to deal with this for most of the trip, you might as well get as comfortable as you can. You answered, one hand on the wheel and one arm resting near the window. “I have an acquaintance who’s a farmer that gives me whatever I need. In return, I pleasure his wife, which helps save their marriage.”

His eyes got huge, not expecting the answer. He nearly tripped over his words. “Really?!”

“No, Kyle. You really think I would do such a thing?” You scowled. Internally, though, you were cracking up at his bewilderment. Soap and Price began chuckling in their seats. Even Simon was cracking a smile that no one could see. Kyle’s embarrassed blush that matched the falling red leaves outside made them even more amused. Who knew you had a sense of humor? A crude sense at that. 

He muttered an apology. At least he was a good sport about it. A part of him found it quite funny too. After the chuckles died down, you answered his question truthfully. “Kate does supply drops for me. Not all the time, just when I need more meat than the woods can provide. Everything else I grow.”

It was an answer that made sense and didn’t reveal much about yourself. Nothing too fascinating about it. At least, to everyone save for Ghost. He took note of your truth, pictured you growing fruits and vegetables, hands in the dirt and sweat dripping down your temple. He imagined you hunting too. A heavy rifle and camo. Patience, aim, fire. He thought that some of the foods he had from your kitchen tasted a little gamey. 

“Didn’t you ever get lonely being out there all by yourself?” Soap inquired, not afraid to ask the question that was on everyone’s mind. All eyes were on you as you took a deep breath.

“No, Johnny. Never.”

This was partially a lie as well as partially the truth. There were times where you did feel alone. Like the only human left on the planet. Kate’s calls every now and then help curb it a little, but it wasn’t the same as actually being in the same space with someone physically. Yet, when you were surrounded by people on a classified mission or watching disaster after disaster on TV, it made you glad that you weren’t a part of any of it. The flurry of different emotions coming from all different sides when with civilization was often too much for you. You needed control. More control than what you could usually get when you were on the outside again.

Simon was watching you carefully now, trying to pick up any indication of a cracked resolve. A twitch, a change in breathing, anything to read into further. There was no way you never felt lonely. Yet, you said it with such conviction that it startled everyone. Ghost just couldn’t believe you.

Having killed the conversation, the boy awkwardly tried to change topics. Now excluding you. Good. You preferred it this way.

~

A few hours in and the car was quiet. Light, easy music played now from the car speakers as everyone took a nap. Except for Ghost, of course. Fortunately, he did keep himself occupied by reading the book you lent him. The first couple of chapters were a miss in his opinion. After a couple more, it started to get good. It didn’t take him long to actually get invested in the story, reading between the lines as you had done when you read. You had good tastes.

Enjoying the quietness of the trip was something you didn’t think you would be able to do. Especially with Simon in the front. Surprisingly, he was being good which you hoped would like for the rest of the trip. Unfortunately, you jinxed it in your head. Out of the corner of your eye, he bookmarked his spot and took a break. Now, he wanted to talk to you.

“You didn’t play your own music.” 

“So?” You shrugged, wondering where he was going with this. Nothing good probably.

“Why not?” He simply asked, himself not knowing what the big deal was. It was just music. You could have even lied. Picked out music you hated. Instead, you just opted out, not even willing to risk three minutes of any particular melody.

You suppressed an annoyed groan. Not this shit again. “What part of ‘leave me alone’ do you not understand, Simon?”

There you go again, saying his name with such disrespectful ease. It still made his heart beat faster hearing it from you. It still made his muscles tense in vexation as well. You noticed this from how the grip on his arms got tighter, his arms crossing his chest. “How much could music taste actually reveal about you as an individual?”

“A lot! God damn it, when are you going to drop this stupid shit? Quit playing your stupid fucking game?!” You spat, trying to keep your cursing at a low volume lest you wake up the rest of the team. Your knuckles were turning white with how hard you were gripping the steering wheel, desperately trying to keep your cool.

However, he didn’t drop it. He didn’t want to, so he wouldn’t. Simon could be just as stubborn as you which made you want to punch him. Have his teeth fall out of his mouth and get caught in his skull mask. “You mean to tell me that you’ve learned a lot about us based on our favorite songs alone? That’s just ridiculous, Hex.”

He could use your name as a curse too. Anything to get you to keep talking to him. Anything to keep your attention. To figure you out. As much as you didn’t want to give him what you wanted, you did anyway out of sheer aggravation. “It’s called Music Psychology, you fucking ass! Do they do anything besides tell you what to shoot in that god forsaken military?! Do they really keep you all fucking braindead?!”

“Watch your mouth, Hex! You don’t want to say anything you don’t mean.” Simon warned, his voice low like a bass about to snap its strings. He had to remind himself that you weren’t like them when it came to combat approach to cool down. The 141 employed leadership, strength, swift execution. An assassin like you employed other values, one being the art of psychology apparently. 

He wasn’t going to let you badmouth his team and those back home that don’t deserve your slander, though. Many people back home were plenty capable with their own skill sets. It wasn’t fair to put them all in one box just because they followed the orders of the government.

“Watch my mouth?! Have you even heard the shit that’s coming out of yours?! Or is your head so far stuck up your own ass that you can’t hear what you say?” You antagonized further, making the situation worse with each passing insult.

“Why are you so fucking defensive?! You cracked a joke earlier, but now asking about your music tastes is too much? You don’t make any fucking sense, Hex. What the hell are you so afraid of?” His own voice was rising with volume as he spiraled out of control as well.

You were practically yelling at this point like the rest of the world didn’t exist except for you and Simon. A personal bubble where you could really try to rip him a new one. You didn’t hold back. “I’m not afraid of anything, Ghost! I just want you to leave me the fuck alone! Why are you so desperate to know me?!

“You’re part of this team, whether you like it or not!  Whether you want to be an enemy or not! Part of that is trusting us with your life. All of it!” He argued, trapping himself in this conflict bubble with you.

Your temper was boiling over to the point you could cry. Why was he doing this to you? Why couldn’t he just let this go? “Why can’t you understand that I am never going to be part of your team?! I never can and I never will!”

At that he paused. There was something about your last retort. Never can? It was oddly specific. What did that mean?

Just then, the light for gas lit up on the dashboard. You clenched your jaw, cursing more profanities that would have anyone blush. A couple miles down was a gas station. A wave of relief washed over you. Now you had an excuse to exit the car to get away from Simon.

You didn’t realize it before with how provoked you were, but the 141 in the back was awake and clearly heard the two of you bickering. The tension thick enough to choke on made it hard for them to interfere. This pit stop would hopefully let things settle down again.

As soon as the car was parked near an empty pump, the doors slid open to let the men out. It felt good to stretch their legs and breathe in some fresh air. It was about time Gaz was relieved of the back seat too. Price, Soap, and Gaz headed into the convenience store for a moment to pick up drinks and snacks, something that was essential for their road trip experience. You leaned against the car, waiting for the gas pump to finish. The entire time, Ghost sat silently in the front doing his own breathing exercises to get his temper under control. God, you were venomous. Troublesome, irritating, infernal, a million other words. Yet, you were beautiful when you were pissed. He couldn’t understand it.

Finally, the car was loaded up once again, now complete with drinks, snacks, and a full tank of gas. The seating arrangements changed, Price now in the back to allow Gaz a chance to let his legs stretch out more. Besides that, he didn’t really want to be up front with all of the conflict. He would normally break it up, but he still didn’t know enough about you to feel comfortable doing so. It was better for this to just play out. It wasn’t like Ghost couldn’t hold his own.

In an attempt to lighten the mood, Soap ripped open a bag of chips followed by a joke. “Looks like mom and dad are fighting again.”

The smirk on his face was quickly wiped away as a pair of keys jingled right near his ear, embedded in his head rest. You had turned from your seat as soon as you registered his distasteful joke, thrown the car keys like a knife, and narrowly missed pinning his ear against the fabric. The car was dead silent as you stared daggers into him. Despite being a strong man with plenty of experiences with danger along with close calls, this experience had Johnny near pissing himself. If looks could kill, he would have been six feet under already.

What was worse was the fact that you missed on purpose. 

“Shut the fuck up! You are not to insinuate that again. Ever! Now, I don’t want anyone trying to talk to me or talk about me for the rest of this fucking trip. Talk to each other, I don’t give a shit. But no more dragging me into any conversation. Are we fucking clear?!”

You were met with quick, obedient nods followed by Soap gingerly handing you back your keys. Before you all knew it, you were back on the road like you didn’t just nearly kill Soap.

Simon was speechless, not expecting you to be so. . . dangerous. His feelings about what just happened were conflicting. On one hand, he wanted to fight you to defend his trusted sergeant that meant no harm, even if he didn’t really like the joke either. On the other hand, he’s never been more attracted to a woman in his life.

The car ride was silent for the next several hours.

~

Your muscles ached from your stiff position. You’ve been driving this whole time, only allowing gas breaks to be your time to stretch out. The boys have rotated seats every stop, now including Ghost who was finally giving you some space by being in the back. Last stop, though, he moved right up to the front with you once again. 

You were getting the dreaded road trip tunnel vision. After so many hours of driving, you couldn’t see anything except for the road ahead. You weren’t so much as driving anymore. You more like just looking out the front windshield, barely keeping up with the surrounding area that passed by. What you normally would recognize as trees, road signs, and roadkill were now just a big blur.

“You’re tired.” Simon commented, treading very carefully. He didn’t want to start another fight. Far from it. He just couldn’t bear to see you so exhausted from driving. 

“I’m fine.” Your voice strained, having lost some of it from the screaming match earlier in the trip. You weren’t used to talking so much as you have been for the past week, let alone fighting with words. A warm cup of tea with honey sounded so good right now.

Ghost took a deep breath in before he gently settled his hand on your shoulder. The fact that you didn’t shrug his touch away was very telling that you were really out of it. “Come on, Hex. Just for a bit. Pull over and I’ll take over the drive. We can switch back after you recuperate.”

It took you a minute to agree. Pulling off to the side of the road, you switched places. The room to stretch out in the passenger side was very much needed. Your bones cracked as you really gave yourself time to take it easy for a moment. “Just an hour. Then, we’ll switch.”

He nodded, finally agreeing with you on something out loud. “Just an hour.”

~

You ended up dozing off for longer than intended. Despite the agreement, Simon let you rest. The trip was already almost complete anyway. What was two more hours to add to your much needed rest?

When the car slowed to a stop, the gang woke up out of their naps, eager to exit the minivan and head into the average-looking hotel you had designated as the new checkpoint. It was nearing dinner-time, the city bustling with people heading to enjoy their meals. Price was ready for something other than chips. Soap and Gaz were already discussing potential food spots as if they were tourists. 

As they unloaded the car to carry their things into the hotel, you stayed asleep. Dead asleep. The deepest sleep you have had in what felt like a lifetime. The men were careful to not wake you up as they unloaded luggage after luggage out of the trunk. When everything was squared away with checking in as well as bringing luggage up to the rooms, you were still snoozing away, much to their surprise.

Price opened up your door, ready to wake you up to get a move on. However, Ghost stopped his hand from touching you. “I’ll take her up. Just go ahead and grab some grub.”

Well, John wasn’t going to say no to that offer. He would rather not be bit by such a feral woman. Though, he did feel like he had to warn Ghost of what he was really doing, having observed just about everything he was trying to do in regards to you. “You’re playing with fire, you know.”

Ghost unlocked your seatbelt and picked you up out of the minivan in a princess carry. Miraculously, you still didn’t wake up. “I know. . .”

The hotel staff were concerned with him carrying you into the hotel. A large man with a skull mask carrying an unconscious lady certainly didn’t look good. In order to avoid interference, Simon had a lie ready for when a bodyguard approached. “I know the mask is scary, but it hides some burn scars. I’m just taking the missus up to the room. She fell asleep in the car.”

Not being paid enough to question the lie, he allowed the both of you to pass by. 

You were heavy in his arms, but nothing he couldn’t handle. He could feel the softness of your skin, the firmness of your muscles. He could make out each individual eyelash that just barely kissed under your eyes. As much as you drove him crazy, you truly were beautiful.

The ding of the elevator reaching their floor knocked him out of his trance. Using a room key, he headed into your space for the next couple of days. The room was pretty basic. A bed, a dresser, tv, bathroom, nightstands, a desk. The only thing that really made it stand out was the original art of the wall made by local, Italian artists. 

He settled your sleeping body down onto the queen-sized bed, brushing your hair out of your face as you settled into the mattress. Looking at you like this was a breath of fresh air for him. He didn’t think he would be able to see you like this so soon. 

Sleeping around others was a sign of trust. Were you just really that exhausted? Probably. Ghost would still take this as a sign of victory anyway.

For a few moments longer, he studied your features. The sound of his stomach grumbling for a meal encouraged him to leave you be for now to which his brain protested. Then again, you probably wouldn’t like it if you found out that he watched you sleep.

Before he left, he took one last look at you, burning the image into his mind. “You said you didn’t sleep, kitten.”

[outofangband]

I had a lot of fun with my Anairë headcanons and people were so nice 🪼🦎🌷 so I wanted to share some Eärwen headcanons! As always I like to use these as an excuse to world build

More in the Teleri tag

One Telerin festival that centers around Telerin children involves the making and flying of handcrafted kites. These are woven, built and painted and then flown along the ocean. Some of Eärwen’s most treasured memories both as a child and later as a parent with her own children were of this celebration. Movement and dance are deeply important methods of storytelling and the kite dancing often involves elaborate and fantastical plays

Eärwen’s father, Olwë was (canonically) born on Middle Earth but her mother was among the first of Telerin children born in Valinor or perhaps on Tol Eressëa. She was vastly curious of the lands of her father’s past and loved to hear of them in story and song

Eärwen speaks Telerin, Quenya and the Vanyarin dialect of Quenya. She also has a good understanding of primitive elvish and the dialects of early Sindarin that Olwë her father brought from Middle Earth. She had a great interest in language and in word play and poetry. Her own poetry is rich in sensory descriptions of wind, sand, water, feather and light.

Eärwen has silvery hair and dark brown eyes. She is tall and athletic, learning to swim as a very young child as is common for Telerin children. She grew up playing chasing and finding games on the shores with her brothers.

Eärwen’s favorite colors are a light blue and sand brown.

I enjoy the notion of Eärwen being something of an epessë or after name, given for her love of sea and water birds and for her ability to communicate with them through both sound and movement, a rare gift among the Eldar. Swans and sandpipers are her favorite birds.

[evanhereonearth]

As a person who lives in the US and thinks Gaelic is a beautiful language and would love to learn - and also as a person who has ADHD and drops most projects she starts and can't be bothered with a daily dose of Duolingo - any advice for slowly digesting it?

I'm wondering if I should just plug into some Gaelic music and start there as far as enjoying the music and then translating lyrics as I grow curious. Something slow and simple in that regard that applies to simply daily interests. 'Cause I know an actual language learning program is just not going to happen for me.

My first thought is to say to indeed start listening to Gaelic any way you can--Gaelic music (I'll put a list below of different styles!), Gaelic podcasts, Gaelic media. Let your ears learn its rhythms.

Our brains are built to learn language by immersion; we're not actually born with the infrastructure for Duolingo. ;) But we've all learned a language from absolute zero to fluency with our first languages, and that engineering of brain structure in there doesn't vanish, just gets inhibited by our adult fear of sounding daft.

There are also a few really good podcasts for learners. An Litir Bheag is a great one, and Speak Gaelic is also a great resource for just hearing the language spoken with some English explanation, but music and conversational listening are great ways to give your brain's scaffolding something to build on. And do it a lot, as much as you can. Just as much as you can bear it, honestly. ADHD brains are excellent with pattern recognition; you very well might start picking out meanings and phrases when you least expect it.

As far as lyrics translations go, I'd look for ones the artists themselves (or other actual speakers have translated). My other big piece of advice is to never, ever, EVER trust Google translate or--god forbid--AI. It's crap. It will set you wrong every time.

Also, one thing I did when I was learning was get children's books. Many of them have audio editions available online on SoundCloud, and they're excellent for grasping sentence structure and flow.

Another method I used was Gabriel Wyner's Fluent Forever method, which may or may not be useful for you, but it is a method of learning a language without translating it through your native language, using the inbuilt language acquisition structure we have already.

I hope that's helpful at all! Lists below!

Music:

Traditional

Sian, a trio of women who sing songs written by women

Mànran, a full band that does some instrumental, some Gaelic songs, and a handful of songs in English

Julie Fowlis, an absolute legend in Gaelic song you might have heard on the soundtrack to Brave (singing in English, though!)

Maighread Stiùbhart, another absolute legend and one of the first Gaelic singers whose music I listened to

Gillebrìde MacIlleMhaoil, a wonderful bàrd and singer from Uist who both writes his own songs and sings traditional songs

Dàimh, trad tunes and Gaelic singing

Gaelictronica

Inyal, somewhat low-key electronic music, really lovely (they also are finishing up their second album; I happen to be working on a project with one of their members as we speak)

Elephant Sessions, heavy on the electronica, little less heavy on the Gaelic but a lot of fun

Niteworks, pure craic, upbeat, lots of pipes and electronica and lots of Gaelic

WHYTE, one of my close friend's and a pal's band, ambient and full of emotion, combo of traditional songs and ones written by my friend

Rock and Other

Runrig, an absolute staple who skyrocketed to fame from Uist in the 80s and are never far from the playlist even now

Tidelines, trad rock ish? They sing in both English and Gaelic

Trail West, similar and with an absolutely rabid following. Seonaidh's great craic, too--I got to sing with him recently at a charity gig

Capercaille, another classic, just celebrated forty years (!!!) and Karen Matheson's voice is just an absolute belter

Joy Dunlop, another legend of Gaelic song and close pal of mine, mostly sings traditional style songs but with a modern twist at times!

Resources:

LearnGaelic.scot: lots of resources for learners at all levels, including a mahoosive dictionary that has sound files for over 70,000 words and phrases

Speak Gaelic: heaps of resources here as well, also my friend Joy's face front and centre, since she's the main presenter, heh

An Litir Bheag podcast: excellent stuff meant for learners at beginner to intermediate levels

Mo bheannachd ort agus gur math a thèid leat!

[cloveroctobers]

terms & conditions — ANGEL REYES x OC/READER x CANE TEJADA

A/N; I'm actually glad that this sat in my drafts waiting to be written (thanks to the poll I put out!) just in time for the season premiere-which isn't being talked too much about as of yet-but I get it! So I gained some more inspo for this piece along with the sudden crush I’ve developed on Woody’s character from power book II—ghost (which I’m also currently watching!) + this song has also been on repeat since I first heard it. It’s fitting and inspired this so let’s get into it!

*GIF BELONGS TO THEIR RIGHTFUL OWNER!*

WARNINGS/DISCLAIMER: language + I am in no way shape or form a therapist! + Angel being a bit of a d!ck :)

┊˚ ̥۪͙��◌ ﹋﹋┊˚ ̥۪͙۪◌ ﹋﹋┊˚ ̥۪͙۪◌ ┊˚ ̥۪͙۪◌ ﹋﹋┊˚ ̥۪͙۪◌ ﹋

"Solay it's great to meet you, thank you for coming." The therapist greeted the mahogany haired woman at the door, lightly shaking her hand.

Solay smiled at the bob-wearing lady, shifting her tote bag, which looked expensive, down to her wrist as she fully entered the sunlit room. Her doe eyes briefly glanced at Angel who now sat with his arms crossed in a chair, a scowl written on his face as his eyes almost drank her in.

"Angel." Solay muttered, placing her bag to the side of her as she took the space in the middle of the empty red couch.

Angel ran his tongue over his front teeth, huffing but felt the therapist sending him a warning glance. Almost as if to say, 'We talked about this.'

He breathed, rolling his head back to face Solay who was now putting her phone on vibrate before tossing it back into her bag, "What's going on, Solay?"

"It's Wednesday so I’m pretty busy," she was vague with her words but attempting to be cordial as she added, "How's Mavy?"

"Growing everyday," Angel answered and couldn't help but to throw in, "How's your rebound doin'? Don't think I didn't see him drop you off in that flashy ass range rover, was my son with ‘em in the backseat?"

Solay's doe eyes immediately went into slits as she let out a breath of laughter. She was barely five minutes in the room with her ex-husband and here he was worrying about who she was involved with by attempting to fuck up her energy. He should be lucky that she even showed her face! She vowed at this first session that she would not allow Angel to continue disrespecting her like he loved to do. The only reason she was here was for their five year old son Xavier, to learn better co-parenting methods...and perhaps for a professional to see that she wasn't crazy for putting up boundaries after everything they've been through.

"Okay, let's reel it in." Dr. Michelle Othman rolled her hands, gaining the attention of the two adults in front of her.

The glare did not leave Angel's face as he dragged his eyes back to the short haired woman who sat at her desk.

"Let's discuss that tension," Dr. Michelle started, "As soon as you entered the room, Solay, you were very curt with your words on greeting Angel, why is that?”

Solay inhaled, "It's never hugs and kisses when we're in each other's space. Sure I would like for it be that way—it's like that with my parents who are divorced, they're friendly but I started off just fine until Angel had to go into attack mode."

Angel felt his pressure beginning to rise since Solay liked to commonly relate her parents to their situation…when clearly this was a very different relationship.

"I didn't attack you, I simply asked if you're leaving my son alone with some strange man." Angel stated, "And I have concerns about that, as a father, it's my right."

"Of course you do but you didn't seem to be too worried when you had our son around during your secret meet-ups with Adelita, hm?" Solay pointed out, strangely calm.

Yet it still felt tit for tat.

"We were seperated when Luisa and I started messing around."

As if that makes it alright!

"Not legally and still very much married. Just for you to sleep with her and a couple of days later we're back together like nothing even happened...like I wouldn't find out." Solay told.

Angel scratched at his brow at that, he knew how it sounded but couldn't say much to defend that. He wasn't sure if he could so he just looked away at Dr. Michelle, who was patient and watchful.

"Angel tells me you two were married for some time."

Solay uttered, “Seven years."

"What made you want to get married?"

"I thought I found my person. We were good together, fun together, friends even.” Solay seemed to be in a daze as she talked, “ I always belived that you have to have a friendship as a foundation before anything and although we were completely messy from the start, meaning intimate before we ever became friends—we were always backwards in everything we did—but I enjoyed being around him. I enjoyed being happy with him, laughing with him. Angel made my heart happy at that time and I always knew he wanted a family and I started picturing what that would be like and feel like with him. then i got the chance to realize…I was happier without him." Solay informed the therapist who hummed at this information.

Angel spoke up, "I wasn't sure i even wanted to be married and not because of Solay. She's a great woman no doubt but I always had doubts of not being good enough to be anybody's husband or father. I was scared shitless but Solay always had a way of uplifting me and making me believe we could do anything we wanted together. That also quickly turned into being blamed for the littlest things and I'm not talking about the cheating. I’ll take responsibility for that part.”

Solay nodded, "Yeah he's right. After the first time Angel cheated on me with some blonde bartender, I became iritated by everything he did and constanly being in his space knowing what he had done, wasn't good for me, i knew i had to leave so I could breathe again. I left to my own condo that I was still living in and considered not renewing the lease. Then I found out I was pregnant and that completely changed everything."

Dr. Michelle nodded at all of this, occasionally writing something down on her notepad. "There's so much to unpack here. Could it be that the both of you had these false ideas of what marriage was supposed to look like because of your upbringing? I'm already aware of the infidelity that was in Angel's parents’ marriage but what was your parents' marriage like Solay, if you don't mind me asking?"

Solay sighed, "They tried to never argue in front of my older sister and I but that didn't mean we couldn't hear it at night when they thought we went to bed. My dad was a borderline alcoholic and always stressed about finances but he did a good job at hiding his worries, yet that didn't mean he didn't take it out on my mom. He can get very loud and apparently verbally abusive when he drank towards my mom. What they showed from the beginning seemed like perserverance …when it was really settling. I knew they were happier when they were younger but they ended up getting a divorce when I was in my early twenties."

"Was it a difficult divorce?"

"Surprisingly no? They seemed thrilled to be doing it because they came to a clear understanding of what they needed from each other.”

"Is that what you want from Angel?"

"One hundred percent but I'm not sure when or if we're gonna get there. There's mountains of pain and anger between us both but I want to get somewhere for the sake of our son." Solay tells Angel's therapist.

The woman quirks up a smile, "that's what I'm here for, for guidance but I want you to also acknowledge that you have to want this for yourself as well and not just your son."

"I don't want to do what my parents did, although it almost seems inevitable when life is a cycle right? I don't want to hide the reality of why his parents aren't getting along and can't co-exist because I don't know what that's doing to him mentally. Sure he's only five but I want us to have a healthy and honest mindset so we can raise him as such."

"Angel do you hear what Solay is saying?"

"Yeah, she's not the only one who doesn't want to fuck up their kid." Angel rubbed at his beard in thought.

Dr. Michelle said, "Then we all need to work on the both of you first so you can both do your best in raising Xavier better. Are you two commited in doing so?"

Commitment was almost taboo for Angel Reyes so Solay wasn’t so sure, it was shocking for her to even be aware that Angel decided to seek out therapy in the first place! Yet they were both here, which is the first step, allegedly.

"You're Angel's therapist, so how long do you predict I need to be in his sessions?"

DR. Michelle analyzed Solay for a brief moment before saying, "Believe it or not, you left a big impact on Angel's life as a husband and father so I can not simply provide you with a timeline. This takes work."

"I receive that, I'm not afraid of doing the work." Solay affirms, "I just wanted an estimate on how long this will last until it doesn't matter anymore."

"What do you mean by that?" Angel asked, brows furrowing.

Solay clasped her hands into her lap, slightly raising them as she talked, "I don't know. It's like you're trying to show a new and improved side of you but I still know the bad parts."

"Because you like pointing the finger and always putting the blame on me! Like you can’t accept that I’m happy!”

"Angel," Dr. Michelle warned at the raised volume in his voice, "Solay, Angel tells me the both of you recently got into a disagreement a week ago. Could this be what you're referring to?"

"I guess so yeah," Solay raised her shoulders and stared down at her hands for a moment, "It's just funny or probably pick me of me to think I gave Angel what he dreamed of, having a family and a home but the moment another woman caught his eye...the minute he found out that Mavy was still alive and Adelita was back in town, his perspective completely changed. What made that family different from I gave?"

"What?" Angel exasperated leaning his elbows into his knees now, "there's no comparison between what I have with you and Xavier and Luisa and Maverick."

"You may not think so but that's how it feels."

"Why do you feel that way?" Dr. Michelle pushed.

Solay swallowed the thickness in her throat, "that argument that happened a week ago. I asked Angel if he can take Xavier for me while I underwent a procedure. My mom was in town and would be tending to me so I thought it would be best. Angel came to pick him up Thursday evening, I went to my procedure that Friday morning and Angel brought Xavier back that same night because he, Luisa, and Mavy were going to some carnival for the weekend.”

Solay was in and out of sleep the whole day in her bedroom and her mother tried her hardest to keep her out of it but she soon learned what Angel had done. To say she was livid would be a understatement but thankfully she had her mom there to calm her down and help out, who did the honors of giving Angel a piece of her mind before she slammed the door in his face.

“What was this procedure?”

“I honestly thought it was a boob-job,” Angel interrupts before Solay could say a thing, which made both women cut their eyes at him, “I mean I wouldn’t be mad at you for it.”

Solay shook her head in aggravation while the therapist kept her face stoic.

“Why are you so comfortable speaking on a body that isn’t yours?” Solay questioned.

‘It used to be,’ Angel thought but knew not to let that slip through his lips.

Angel raised his hands from his spot on the chair, “I’m not! I never said you needed that shit anyways, I loved your itty bitties—

“Angel, enough.” Dr. Michelle scolded, “Let Solay finish. I told you at the start of inviting Solay here is for us to see her perspective and get to know her a bit so that we can come to a common ground in your relationship. Now Solay, please continue.”

Angel tried not to roll his eyes. This was his therapist after all and sure he knew what this session was about since it took courage to ask Solay to be here and felt like forever for her to agree. It was all about listening and shit but he didn’t like the picture that was being painted.

Solay sighed with her eyes closed, “I went for a biopsy on my ovaries. So no it wasn’t a boob job or some spa day or walk in the park like you thought, Angel. It was serious and again, Xavy and I got pushed to the side: Second fiddle.”

Sometimes she wondered if it had to do with Xavier being hearing impaired. Did Angel not want to be bothered enough to include their child on his new family outings? She thought about bringing it up but she also knew it wasn’t right to think that when Angel did take up the time learning sign language (in his own way) to communicate with their child. Everyone on his side of the family did and although it was a little shaky for him more so than Solay, he did try… however it didn’t erase the fact that Xavier seemed to be excluded majority of the time.

So she kept it to herself.

Dr. Michelle allowed the weight of silence to be felt. She motioned for the tissues on the coffee table for Solay—if needed but the woman just hugged herself, making the therapist lightly scribble down some more notes at this.

Angel was full on frowning now, “Biopsy…ain’t that for diagnosing something?”

“Cancer, Angel. They were worried after finding a lump in my abdomen and some other symptoms I was experiencing. I just needed you to come through for me, just this once.” Solay exhaled, eyes on him.

Angel felt the color drain from his face. The rings on his fingers were pressed to his lips as he felt his knee start to bounce, “why didn’t you say something?”

“You mean to tell me you forgot in the next twenty-four hours that I was having something done?”

“I’m a dumbass sometimes! I seriously thought it was something minor and really didn’t think or even remember, honestly querida—Solay it fucken slipped my mind.”

“Do you believe his words, Solay?”

She shrugged her shoulders, “it’s possible. He forgot his own brother’s birthday.”

“Hey, we’re not talking about Ezekiel here.” Angel growled while Solay rolled her eyes, “…are you alright, soso?”

Hearing Angel use another nickname on her, made her skin crawl. Once upon a time, she thought it was cute and it actually gave her butterflies when Angel would say it, his rough callous hands cupping her face. Now? She just wanted him to shut up.

“Now you care?” Solay hissed, “all you had to do was include Xavy in on your quality time with his baby brother, that’s it. Do that one thing for me, for him. But nothing else matters and that’s why I’m so pissed.”

“Aye, don’t take this shit out on Mav.”

“I would never. I always engage with that sweet baby when he’s in my presence. That’s Xavy’s baby brother and I’m not that kind of woman. I would never take my frustrations with you out on your kid. Ever.” Solay’s heated doe eyes met Angel’s and he had to sit back in the chair, dejected.

Angel said, “I’m sorry. Forreal. I do wish you would of told me exactly what was going on with you though.”

“Would it have made a difference?”

“I’m sure it would, yeah.” Angel stared, which Solay held.

That felt definite.

Dr. Michelle looked up from her notes, “this is good you two. You’re both laying it out on the table, engaging and truly seeing what it is that you brought you two here. it’s leading us to the root of the problem.”

“Talk to us, doc. What do you think it is?” Angel dragged his eyes away from Solay, keeping his leg bouncing.

“From our conversations Angel, you hold a lot of insecurities and it stems from your own childhood trauma that you haven’t healed from. It’s bled into your marriage and you, Solay. Your defense mechanism is to shut down when situations are tough, putting your guard up instead of saying exactly what it is that’s troubling you.”

“Yes because I’m tired—so tired of reading the same pages of this story over and over with Angel.” Solay sniffed, “I’m not here to say he’s a bad person. I know he’s not. He’s just not a good partner for me. He’s got a strong heart and I know he loved me at some point in our relationship and he cares for our son sure, but I can’t help but to look at him sometimes and feel like I’m dealing with the damn devil.”

Angel furrowed his brows as he points at his own chest, “I’m the devil? I know you don’t believe that when you don’t even know what you’re getting yourself involved in with that dude who just dropped you off.”

“Oh, not this again.” Solay exhaled rubbing underneath her eyes, “I did not come here for you to worry about who I’m spending time with.”

“She acts like she’s so much better than me, when she’s dealing with someone just as shitty and she’s acting like fucking Stevie wonder with it.” Angel gritted.

“Are you also in a new relationship, Solay?”

“Yes. It just became serious.”

“Have Angel and this person met?”

“Absolutely not.”

“Why?”

“We’d probably kill each other.” Angel declared, feeling his fists lock together at the mere thought of Solay with somebody else.

Somebody better but he was positive Cane wasn’t.

Solay shrugged her shoulders, realizing this was true. Cane knew about Angel and the failure of their marriage and honestly he had words for Angel the day they ever came face to face. He got close but Solay always made sure to detour the man away from causing any chaos. It was amusing to Cane however because one day he was sure he was gonna say whatever came to mind when he set his eyes on Angel.

Solay just wanted a simple soft life, was that too much to ask for?

“Okay,” Dr. Michelle said, “So we have the both of you in relationships, Angel you with the same woman you had relations and child with. Solay’s also in a relationship that you don’t particularly like or trust, Angel. You both share a child together but your regressions towards each other make it hard to be within the same space. Is that correct?”

Solay blinked, “that about narrows it down.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Angel rolled his head around, trying to straighten up the tension in his body.

Dr. Michelle cleared her throat, “seems like we have quite the work cut out for us on resolving these issues between you two. We’re down to ten minutes left on the clock, so I want to give you some homework to take with you so that you’re prepared when I see you both next week.”

“Homework?” Angel exhaled, “I didn’t go off to college for this exact reason, Doc.”

“Well think of this as a introductory course,” Dr. Michelle declared, “you’re welcome.”

Solay snickered at the expression on Angel’s face who was reaching for a post it note on the edge of Dr. Michelle’s desk. The therapist was scribbling some last minute notes as Angel managed to grab the paper, ball it up and toss it in Solay’s direction.

Which resulted in double middle fingers from the woman who managed to dodge it just in time. Angel scoffed and stuck out his tongue until Dr. Michelle cleared her throat.

“Are you two quite finished?”

Solay flicked one of her ponytails behind her shoulder and sent a sweet smile at the woman who stared hard at the pair.

“It’s a simple exercise. Both of you are going to write seven things that impacted your relationship from beginning, middle, to end. You can also form it into a Venn diagram or a pros and cons list, then we’ll discuss it next week. Sound good?” Dr. Michelle asks.

Solay has her phone now, her fingers tapping away at her screen as she sets a reminder for herself to do this before next Wednesday. She suddenly looks up at Angel who has his arms resting on the arm rests, twiddling his thumbs.

“Do I have to text you a reminder?”

“Would you be so kind?” Angel was sarcastic, “I’ll remember. If I can show up to see Dr. Michelle’s beautiful atmosphere, I can remember to do some homework.”

Solay replied in a sing song tone, straight but lightly shaded eyebrows raising, “okay…”

“You don’t believe me?”

“If you do the work, I’ll do the work. Otherwise this’ll be for nothing.” Solay answers, meeting Angel’s much darker eyes before turning back to the therapist, “thank you for your time, Dr. Michelle.”

“Thank you for showing up Solay, that’s time.” Dr. Michelle stood from her desk, walking around to lead the two out.

Solay stood in the lobby, messing around with her phone while Angel shared a hushed conversation with Dr. Michelle—hoping to get some sort of reflection or opinion on his ex-wife. It was a little selfish for Angel to want Dr. Michelle to strictly be on his side but he’d be lying if said he didn’t wish for his therapist to provide him with that comfort.

However Dr. Michelle liked to be theoretical and shit so Angel knew he shouldn’t be surprised.

“We’ll get somewhere, Angel. Now that she’s here, we can get this chapter closed and then focus on the next stage, yes?” Dr. Michelle explained while Angel slowly nodded, taking her word for it.

Soon he bid his goodbyes to the British woman before he fished his pockets for a cigarette. Just to mess around with as he approached Solay, he promised that he would actually quit smoking this time around and so far he’s been on track.

“You waiting for your boyfriend, who probably can’t see over the curb to pick you up?” Angel spoke from behind Solay.

She huffed, glancing over her shoulder, “actually no, I’m waiting on my assistant to get me and bring me back to work—if it’s any of your business.”

“Course it is, you’re still the mother of my child.” Angel snorted, “tell her don’t bother, I’ll take you back.”

“On your death trap? I think not.”

“Traffic gets bad around this time out here…the bike it much faster than whatever your assistant is coming to get you in, so it’s up to you.” Angel tapped the cigarette on the glass window of the door.

Solay thought about it, staring hard at Angel who offered her a goofy smile before pushing the door open, walked through and held it open waiting for the woman to follow after. Sighing, she pressed her phone to her ear to let her employee know that she found her way and that she’ll see her soon.

“No funny shit, Angel. Take me straight to work.”

“What? You don’t wanna stop and have lunch first?”

“Not after that session and especially not with you.” Solay answered as Angel yanked up the helmet that rested on his bike.

Angel did the honors of slipping the helmet down on her head, surely messing up her ponytails as he secured it and knocked his knuckles against the top, “damn, that hurts.”

“Terms and conditions.” Solay pointed, making Angel shake his head as he climbed on the bike first.

Solay followed shortly after, resting her hands on Angel’s shoulders to steady herself. As he kicked the engine on, solay almost flinched, knowing that she had to wrap her hands around Angel’s waist instead.

“Does what’s his face have these terms and conditions that you speak of, too?”

“Yup, he has you to thank for that.”

Angel let out a exaggerated sigh, choosing not to say anything else on that as he peddled the bike backwards before steering into a turn, then he set off into the desert streets with Solay still having a hold on him.

What would have been a hour ride was turned into a thirty-five minute one as the tatted man was parked in front of Solay’s business while she let her hair run free now by using Angel’s side mirror, then handed the helmet back to said man.

“Thanks for the ride.”

“Anytime, soso.” Angel glanced at the building seeing a few clients inside of the orange sickle colored building, “spot looks cool as fuck, I’m proud of you, you know?”

Solay had a bachelor’s degree in science, finding her field in dermatology and held her license as a esthetician. She also sold a successful skincare line that she launched on her own website just last year. And this year she purchased her first house all on her own. She was doing well for herself but remained humble about it all.

“Okay, Angel.” Solay sighed, holding her bag down in front of her as she stared out at the orange skies, “we don’t have to kiss each other asses.”

Anfel shrugged, “It’s better than chewing each other out though right? Especially after today and I mean it so what’s the harm in that?”

“…well I appreciate it.”

“See, I can play nice sometimes too huh?” Angel winked as he put his helmet on, “I’ll let you get too it then…remind me, am I picking Xavier up from school on Friday or?”

‘Are you having him for the weekend since it is technically your weekend thanks to me screwing it up last time.’ Angel thought to himself.

“Papa Felipe is so it’s easier for you to bring him to yours.”

Angel was thankful that Solay wants Xavier to actually spend Friday and Saturday night with him after what he pulled last weekend. However he probably knew his pops would give him a hard time and would probably want to keep the boy to himself for the weekend. Solay’s mom and Felipe often chatted; with Felipe telling Angel that his mother, Marisol, probably would have loved Solay���s mom.

“Cool,” Angel said, “I’ll see you on Sunday then.”

“Sunday it is.”

He dipped his head, starting the engine and she watched the man drive off into the sunset before making her way inside.

[Sometime Saturday night…]

Cane Tejada entered the one level stucco home, hands rubbing in excitement as he entered the front of the home. To his surprise, he didn’t find Solay in the kitchen whipping it up and went through the house in search of her.

He found her in the main bedroom with the attached bathroom, touching up her makeup as her hips swayed to a Ayra Starr song. Leaning against the door, he let out a low whistle as his eyes scanned over her curves in the lace corset midi-dress.

“Tonight is my lucky night after all,” Cane bit down on his bottom lip.

Solay stopped leaning over the counter, molding her lipstick covered lips together and blinked her eyes as she glanced over her shoulder at the brown-skinned man, “you’re not coming out with me.”

“Huh?”

Solay brushed by Cane, her light floral and hint of a hazelnut scent hitting his nostrils as she walked by. He followed the woman into her bedroom, eyeing her as she sat on the edge of the bed, one leg crossed over the other.

“Where you going, So?”

She smiled up at him as she slipped on a heel, her anklet bracelet glistening in the room, “Out. Without you.”

“Nah, I’m not feeling that. Not with the way that dress is fitting and the way that ass is—

Solay inserted, “not my problem.” She got to her feet in search of her clutch, “matter of fact, why don’t you reach out to what was her name? Effie. And see if she wants to entertain you for the night.”

She tapped his jaw before turning off the light, making Cane slightly curse to himself. He jogged after the long haired woman, reaching out to grip her waist to turn her to him.

Solay held mock sympathy on her face and Cane didn’t like it one bit, “you going through my shit?”

“You left your laptop here and it was going haywire…something about tuition. I didn’t care to read it all,” she lifted her shoulders careless, “so…you should consider looking for the next flight home to New York soon.”

“It ain’t even like that.” Cane started, “it was just business, nothing more.”

Solay shushed him, “I don’t wanna hear about it. I’m not even stressing it babe, it’s fine.”

Cane scrunched up his nose, “but it’s not because you’re dismissing my ass like I ain’t shit—like we ain’t build this together.”

“What even is this?”

Cane was confused, “a relationship? We been locked in for awhile now so why you trying to switch up on me?”

“You’re the one out here dropping stacks on some girl’s tuition.”

“I ain’t fuck her if that’s what you’re getting at.” Cane was blunt with it, “I’m here for and with you. I’m not some disloyal cheating ass bitch, like your ghost rider baby father. Let’s get that straight.”

Solay sighed, staring down at the new set on her hand.

Cane gripped Solay’s chin, making her eyes meet his, “I’m not him, So. I’m not gonna do you dirty, I’m only about you.”

And solay held his stare not entirely believing it. She’s been down this road before and it was wrong for her to enter relationships—serious relationships and always compare them to Angel. He hurt her bad time after time and she’ll be a cold hearted bitch if that meant she gets to protect her heart better.

She’ll get rid of anybody that plays with her, just like that.

Cane included.

“Words are just words, Cane. You have to show me.”

Cane gripped onto her waist, holding tighter but still kept some distance just in case she felt like she wanted to throw hands, “I gotchu. I’m yours.”

“You already violated one of the terms and conditions and you have maybe two more left, so think wisely next time.” Solay warned, resting one hand on Cane’s shoulder.

Cane was swift with pulling out his phone, “what? You want me to take that cash back?”

He’ll sign a NDA if she hit him with one, he didn’t want to lose what he had with Solay. She was the only woman that ever made him feel loved but it’s not like he wanted to get too deep about it. Emotions were a lot to feel you know?

Solay shook her head, “no. I know there’s more where that came from, just don’t treat me like I don’t ever know what’s going on.”

“Heard you.” Cane put his phone back as he stepped closer, glancing down at her lips before sliding his hands down to rest on her backside, “can I get to show you just how important you are to me?”

One hand came up to brush her bouncy curl over her shoulder, exposing the length of her neck which he licked his lips at before placing a peck there.

She shoved him back, “not uh, I have some place else to be.”

“Oh it’s like that, so?”

“Yup it’s like that,” she smirked over her shoulder swaying her way to the front door, “don’t wait up for me. Bye!”

Cane shook his head in disbelief and looked around the empty but quiet one-level home, “fuck am I supposed to do, meditate?”

That’s when he phone rang, right on time and he picked it up on the second ring, “Dru, what’s good?”

“Got that info you wanted on Reyes. Want me to send it your way?”

“Nah just tell it to me and meet me over there.”

Cane listened carefully to what Dru told him before hanging up. A smirk was on his lips as he also took his exit from the home.

he was ready for his own fun for the night.

Sorry so.

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Continue along with my spring anthology writings here.

*Read part two here!

[cacturne]

1, 2, 4, 5, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 20 and 23 for my friends Heron and Stork >:)

YAAYY!! 1, 2 and 4 have already been answered for heron so she will jump in a little later!

1. What memory would your OC rather just forget?

Stork would say regret prison at first, then she thinks for a bit and goes wait, i can get valuable research from my experience, make me forget when Bellara and Emmrich walked in on me playing the piano instead. She isn’t very concerned about forgetting things, memories are one of the things that separates the living from the dead and informs their very existence after all, even if they are negative experiences. Embarrassing experiences however…

2. What's something about your OC that people wouldn't expect just from looking at them?

Honestly i don’t think people would expect her combat and leadership skills from her. She’s very smiley and easygoing, someone you would expect to see as a quirky Librarian instead of on the battlefield snuffing out a war between undead. She does appreciate the sentiment though, she knows she’d look great in a Librarian outfit. This woman was built to wear glasses in a glasses-less world.

4. When scared, does your OC fight, flee, freeze or fawn?

I think Stork doesn’t realize she’s scared until it hits her later, that’s when a flee response really kicks in which she then manages through various mental exercises.

5. How far is your OC willing to go to get what they want?

Heron will go as far as she needs to as long as it does not risk the lives of her allies. That’s a hard line that she draws, the safety of her people come first and foremost to her. She also won’t do overtly bad things such as taking innocents captive and burning down their homes to get a leg up on someone or something like that, she will instead try to find more moral alternatives that could still give her that advantage. Within those boundaries though? Heron will go as far as she needs to, even if it costs her personally.

Stork goes further than Heron, whatever it takes, quite literally. She will let people sacrifice themselves for a goal if it’s a big enough goal to warrant something like that. She does still draw a hard line at remaining moral, no orphan torture here or whatever, but if her and her squads lives need to be given for the sake of their duty then they will go in there and fight to the last. When it’s something less serious than a war or two evil gods though she does draw the line at casualties, there’s no use in sacrificing yourself in a battle you can retreat from and come back to. They’ll do what they can and get out if it gets too hairy to draw new plans and re-evaluate the situation.

9. Do you have a specific lyric or quote which you associate with your OC?

No :( for both… i apologize, most of the music i listen to is in a language i don’t understand and i tend not to look up the lyrics so song/lyric assignments for my OCs are rare. Same with quotes, i’m not really sure how assigning quotes works? Is it just from anywhere? Does it have to be poetry, or..? You can tell i’m extremely uninvolved in this aspect of OC stuff LOL i live under a rock. Everyone throw tomatoes at me i can’t make you want to chew drywall through a perfectly tailored lyric assignment except for like… a singular one for Hawk.

10. What's an AU that would be interesting to explore with your OC?

Heron’s actually been pretty interesting to explore in a co-Inquisitor AU! (Shoutout Dragons) it’s fun to see what role she takes when not the only one at her high stature and the dynamics that come from it!! Somehow she’s simultaneously more and less stressed, it’s a Schrödinger’s miracle.

For Stork… hmmmm i think she could be interesting to put in a non-mage AU, considering her magic is a key factor for the majority of her research having her work ten times as hard and adapt to various non-magic methods of study would be cool!! Kind of like what i ASSUMED Bellara had going on before i learned that she’s actually a mage.. still a betrayal to me.

15. Does your OC have a faceclaim? If so, who?

Again i live under a rock i <:) don’t know a majority of popular people. Or remember their faces very well. I just make my guys in a funny character creator and draw them and that is their face… i apologize…

16. What is your OC's pain tolerance like?

Heron has a pretty high pain tolerance, she tends not to flinch from blows unless they put her off-balance and can quickly retaliate or react afterward. While very resistant to blows open wounds do tend to make her flinch for a second, but depending on the size of them she quickly fights through that pain. Messing with her balance is the most surefire way to defeat her in combat.

Stork surprisingly actually has a lower than average pain tolerance, which is tragic because she has a habit of accidentally walking into doorframes or tables when distracted by her thoughts. This is one of the reasons she keeps such a distance in battle, both because that is her combat style but also because she can quickly become dazed or stunned when receiving a heavy blow which is hard for her to recover from. She still fights through any pain when she can, but becomes a bit sluggish and can easily be targeted and taken down when not careful.

19. How does your OC behave when enraged?

Heron gets a little petty. She gets a little spiteful and sarcastic. When you get her angry to that degree i’d say all politeness and courtesy is OUT and you will get the colorful mercenary vocabulary in return, with low blows and everything. Shouted at you, as she grabs you by your shirt. She’d probably become more impulsive and hateful to the point of being a bit careless, but only careless to herself. This is really rare though, i don’t think you could get her to this point unless you’re seriously provoking her. Even the angriest she’s been (Exalted Council) was just… being really angry, tired, stressed and in pain. Not enraged. Heron probably wouldn’t like how ugly she becomes very much either and would walk out if possible before becoming enraged.

Stork gets loud and firm when she’s angry, but when she’s enraged i think she just becomes silent and commanding, impatient. You will listen to her or there will be consequences. I don’t think she’s above bodily threats either, or playing into the Necromancer stereotype to get a fear response. Again, this is rare, she’s only ever gotten that angry before with Solas in Minrathous but it does tend to stick with people considering how it’s a pretty drastic shift. She’s got a mean glare.

20. Does your OC have a tendency to get jealous? If so, how does this manifest?

Heron gets a little jealous… she’s a little embarrassed about it but she is very much a Is That Man Bothering You Queen type of person when about her wife. She doesn’t become super possessive or confront the guy or anything, but she will just kind of hover around Josie whenever that happens. Just in case, you know. In general though? She's pretty content on that front, nothing to really be jealous of.

The only thing Stork Ingellvar has ever been jealous of is people that have Corpse Whispering, incredibly so if you catch her in the wrong mood, and she deals with it by ranting in her head about how she deserved to have it when taking a bath. Other than that? Stork is a jealousy free person who just rides the waves of life. She’s also rather oblivious to any jealousy from other people, which can lead to tragic misconceptions.

23. What emotion is the hardest for your OC to process? How about express?

Heron isn’t good at processing her stress, it just kind of builds up in the background over time without her really realizing it until it’s debilitating. As for expression, Heron isn’t very good at expressing her sadness. It’s just not something she knows how to do well, especially crying. It always just comes out very awkward and unnatural to her and she doesn’t like it.

Stork doesn’t really know how to process or express her fear, growing up in an environment where most things people are afraid of are normalized and never really leaving it until much later has made it difficult for her to really know how to react to it, considering all the things people usually fear are normal for her. She just kind of uses exercises taught to her or distracts herself when able and hopes that the feeling will eventually go away.

[mythrite]

Drogo Full Bio

i love my silly lil guy

Name: Finley Williams

Aliases: Drogo, The Metal Cryptid, Glowstick (From being in Ghost)

Nationality: Canadian Ethnicity: White

Age: 29 DoB: 6/30/95

Pronouns: he/him 

Gender: Cisgender Sex: M

Sexuality: Gay

Height: 5’7

Languages: English

Roles/Instruments: Lead/rhythm guitar (typically lead), bass, clean/dirty vocals, acoustic guitar (not for performance)

Personality: Social, flirty, high energy, cryptid energy very much

Backstory: Born in Vancouver, he grew up in a music household of the 90s bands. Finley eventually got interested in metal and it was that from there. He has tried starting up his own band when he was younger, but decided never again. But he still wanted to do music, so found himself joining any and all bands, learning all sorts of styles on guitar and bass.

Issues: Facial dysmorphia, loses track of time when playing instruments—leads to exhaustion and fingers bleeding, exhausts himself to the point he cannot speak

Habits: Licks blood off fingers, gestures a lot, has a little boogie, stands ominously in the back of the stage

Scars: Scratches on his fingers, missing canine

Preferred method of showing care/affection/love language: Compliments/words

Preferred way of receiving care/affection: Physical touch, Words

Body description: Slim, muscular, great waist (people love it)

Favorite Activities: Band practices, posting online, interacting with band members, hiking, going to coffee shops, playing/singing acoustic versions of songs

Blood Type: B-

Favorite color: Dark blue. Dark red and neon green (they look good on his mask)

Favorite animal: Ravens

Favourite food/Dessert: Marshmallows, cookie dough

Other Fun Facts:

Drogo was a name decided upon his fans. Once the fans agreed on his name, that’s when he began making social media accounts.

Has (had? idk if/when the ban goes through) a/an Tiktok, Instagram, Twitter/x, and a Youtube channel where he posts more cryptid shit. Usually who he’s touring with next.

Very anonymous. People have tried to find his identity like the assholes they are. They have gotten insanely close to his identity, but no one is sure because theres barely any solid evidence. Drogo is straight terrified that his fans will be able to find him.

Gives in and does the fan service

Has had to shove glowsticks into his mask when the LEDs died on him

ok fine he gets to like dcfc

Had his gay awakening one day on stage

Only uses his acoustic guitar when alone

Keeps a bag of marshmallows in his pocket to eat

Had a biker phase when he was 25-27, but sold his motorcycle when he began touring

Profesional at hurting people with baseball bats

Vapes occasionally, usually only when offered

[maigamal]

Engaging Ways to Learn Arabic: Games and Activities

Learning Arabic can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you incorporate games and activities into your study routine. Arabic learning games and activities can enhance your language skills while making the process enjoyable. Whether you are a beginner or looking to improve your proficiency, these interactive methods can help you grasp vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation more effectively.

Interactive Language Games

Language games are a fantastic way to practice Arabic in a relaxed environment. For instance, flashcards can be used to memorize vocabulary. Create a set of cards with Arabic words on one side and their English translations on the other. Challenge yourself or a friend to see who can recall the most words in a set time. This method not only aids memory but also adds a competitive edge.

Another great game is Pictionary, where you draw a word in Arabic, and others guess what it is. This visual activity helps in understanding and remembering new words while having a laugh with friends or family.

Online Resources and Apps

In today’s digital age, there are numerous apps and websites dedicated to learning Arabic. Platforms like Shaykhi.com offer resources specifically for Quran learning, helping users to develop their Arabic skills in a context that is meaningful to them. Utilizing such platforms can provide structure to your learning, allowing you to focus on specific areas like reading, writing, or speaking.

Cultural Immersion Activities

Immerse yourself in the Arabic language through cultural activities. Cooking a traditional Arabic dish by following a recipe written in Arabic can enhance your vocabulary related to food and cooking. Music is another excellent way to connect with the language. Listening to Arabic songs and trying to sing along can improve your pronunciation and rhythm.

You could also watch Arabic films or series with subtitles. This can enhance your listening skills while providing insights into Arab culture, customs, and everyday life.

Group Learning Sessions

Joining a language group can provide a supportive environment to practice speaking Arabic. Look for local language exchange meetups or online forums where you can interact with native speakers and fellow learners. Sharing experiences and learning together can motivate you to continue your studies.

Conclusion

Integrating Arabic learning games and activities into your study plan can significantly enrich your language acquisition process. From interactive games and online resources like Shaykhi.com to cultural immersion and group learning, there are countless ways to make learning Arabic an enjoyable journey. Embrace these methods and watch your skills grow while having fun along the way!

[benravioli]

Recently I've started mining sentence flashcards out of song lyrics and omg this is the most efficient way I've ever seen to get more words.

Just copying a lyric and tossing it into Pleco will very easily yield 1-5 new cards per lyric, I don't think anything can match that level of efficiency. Most song lyrics are right in the sweet spot for me because the vocab isn't too rare (like in the books I eventually want to read), but it's also a bit above my current level.

It's such a great way for me to have an easy way to hear the vocabulary a lot. Most of our language input we see once and we're done with it, which means any words that don't show up super often are gone with that piece of media and we never have it reinforced outside of flash cards - that's not an issue with music (for me) since whenever I listen to my Chinese playlist I reinforce my vocabulary. It also gives an opportunity to practice speaking fluently, since songs don't usually wait for one to finish stuttering!

An obvious drawback is that learning with lyrics doesn't preserve tone, but I mitigate that by occasionally speaking the lyrics without the music.

Also doing it this way is a pain because so many artists I like are mainlanders who only ever have lyrics available in simplified (looking at you, 圈9), so I have to go through and manually traditional-ize my notes.

All in all I'm not sure how much this would work for others, but this method is great for me right now (and worked for me in the past - I wonder when I would have learned the Esperanto word "spegulo," "mirror," if I hadn't heard it in a Kajto song over and over lol)

[maziijapanese]

Conquer Japanese Effectively: Part 2 - All You Need to Know

Japanese, with its complex writing system and diverse grammar, is one of the most challenging yet fascinating languages to learn. In the first part of this series, we explored the basic methods and foundational strategies to begin the journey of mastering Japanese. Continuing from there, in part 2, Mazii will delve into advanced techniques and a rich array of study materials to help you optimize your learning process. Whether you're preparing for the JLPT exam or just aiming to improve your daily communication skills, this article will provide practical and useful suggestions to help you progress further in your Japanese language proficiency. Let’s explore valuable tips and experiences to learn Japanese effectively and sustainably!

5. How to Read Books Effectively

Reading books will help you expand your vocabulary and is also a way to learn Kanji. The biggest tip is: don't read silently! When you start learning Japanese, it's more beneficial to pronounce the sentences and vocabulary out loud rather than reading them silently in your head. Read the vocabulary out loud, clearly articulate small passages in a text, and engage in vocal activities. Write down your responses to these activities rather than just skimming through the words in your mind. Moving the vocabulary from your mind to your mouth is a skill that requires a great deal of practice.

6. Learning Japanese with Flashcards

The key to quick memorization is these "small but mighty" flashcards. Moreover, these cards are very portable, and you can buy them at a very affordable price or create your own. An effective tip for learning Japanese with this method is to write one word or phrase per card, as you can randomly shuffle the positions of the words, and your brain will accurately register what you want to remember rather than just the order of the words written on the card.

7. Learning Through Tapes, Movies, and Music

Japanese has become popular among foreign youth through manga, rock music, and J-Pop. If you are a fan, this is a great opportunity to practice by reading manga/watching movies before translations are available or trying to translate your favorite song lyrics. This will help you understand the use of words in specific contexts, as the language in daily life can be very different from what you learn in textbooks. Additionally, it will help you get used to the speaking speed of native Japanese speakers.

Most books come with tapes guiding the pronunciation of vocabulary and reading passages. Before reading the lesson, listen to it to see how much you understand, write down what you hear, and then compare, so you will remember the lesson longer.

8. Singing Japanese Songs with Lyrics

A useful Japanese learning experience is singing along with song lyrics (karaoke). This helps you recognize Kana, Kanji, and increase your reading speed, and of course, it teaches you how to read Japanese. Culturally and habitually, this is beneficial since karaoke is very popular in Japan, and Japanese people often have a favorable impression of foreigners who can sing their songs (the older the songs, the better). Therefore, practice as soon as possible. Karaoke groups are also a great way to make friends and exchange learning experiences.

9. Find a Japanese-Speaking Friend

This is one of the most effective tips for learning Japanese. Find a Japanese person who wants to improve their Vietnamese (or English). Listening to this person and hearing yourself speak will help you pronounce correctly and encourage them to correct your mistakes. The biggest reward of this practice is that it will help your brain think in Japanese. Textbook dialogues can be predictable, but in reality, no one speaks like that. Learning Japanese in isolation will deprive you of the opportunity to practice conversation. There are many such groups on Meetup.com, or you can find these people in your school or where you live.

10. Be Cautious with Study Programs in Japan

Immersing yourself in a native-speaking environment is the best way to learn any language. However, this is a further step for those with slightly better Japanese skills who want to speak fluently. So, if you haven't mastered the language, don’t rush into applying for study programs in Japan, as it can lead to discouragement if you can't keep up.

11. Choose a Romaji System

Transcribing Japanese words into Romaji can sometimes be confusing as there is not just one formula for writing them. For example, the word "fu," ふ, replaces "hu" in (ha/hi/fu/he/ho), so the verb "fuku" is sometimes written as "huku." The difference in pronunciation is minimal. The word "tsu" (つ) can be written as "tu," "shi" (し) as "si," "dou" (どう) as "doo," etc. Be careful not to confuse these Romaji words as two different words. Choose a Romaji system that you prefer.

12. Visit Japan and Explore the Cities

No matter how many books you read, movies you watch, or people you talk to, you won’t experience the true environment unless you go there. Your conversation and reading skills will significantly improve when you experience Japan firsthand. Don’t forget to review your knowledge when you return home. Large cities have many people who speak both English and Japanese and are willing to practice with you. Don’t forget to go karaoke there!

Learning Japanese is a long journey that requires patience and continuous effort. Hopefully, through the two parts of this article, you have gathered many useful tips and methods to apply to your learning process. From mastering grammar and vocabulary to honing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, every step is important and contributes to your progress. Always maintain your passion and continuously seek opportunities to practice and improve. Remember, every difficulty is an opportunity to learn and grow.

Wishing you success on your journey to mastering Japanese and achieving your learning goals!

[virromanus]

How to Stay Motivated in Learning Latin

In a world dominated by rapidly evolving languages and tech-driven communication, the decision to learn Latin, a language often perceived as 'dead', is a bold one. Yet, Latin is far from irrelevant. It is the bedrock of many modern languages and a key to unlocking vast historical and literary treasures. In this article, we’ll explore effective strategies to stay motivated in your Latin learning journey.

1. Set Clear Goals

Why are you learning Latin? Is it to read ancient texts, understand the roots of modern languages, or for academic purposes? Clear goals will be your compass, guiding you through the ups and downs of the learning process. Break your goals into smaller, manageable milestones – such as mastering a certain number of vocabulary words each week or reading a Latin paragraph without help.

2. Embrace the History

Latin is a gateway to ancient civilizations. As you learn, immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Romans. Understanding the context in which the language was used adds depth to your learning and makes it more engaging.

3. Mix Traditional and Modern Learning Methods

Latin textbooks are great, but don’t limit yourself. Use apps, online courses, or interactive software for a more engaging experience. Incorporate modern methods like language exchange with fellow Latin learners or join online forums.

4. Celebrate Small Wins

Language learning is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate your small victories – be it correctly conjugating a difficult verb or understanding a sentence in a Latin text. These small wins keep the momentum going.

5. Connect with a Community

Learning in isolation can be challenging. Join Latin learning communities, either online or locally. Engaging with others on the same path provides moral support, motivation, and valuable learning tips.

6. Apply Your Learning

Find ways to use your Latin knowledge. Translate simple phrases, attempt to read short texts, or even try writing in Latin. Applying what you learn reinforces your knowledge and gives a sense of achievement.

7. Be Patient and Persistent

Latin can be challenging with its complex grammar and vast vocabulary. Patience and persistence are key. Remember, every language expert was once a beginner.

8. Use Latin in Creative Ways

Incorporate Latin into your hobbies. If you’re a writer, try writing short stories or poems in Latin. If you enjoy music, listen to songs with Latin lyrics. This keeps the learning process fun and interesting.

Conclusion

Learning Latin is a unique and enriching journey. It requires dedication, but the rewards are immense, offering a deeper understanding of many modern languages and cultures. Stay focused on your goals, be patient, and remember to enjoy the journey. Felicem iter facias – may you have a happy journey!

[trickstercaptain]

@toodamnloyal sent a meme: 2, 5 , 9

2. how is their social media presence?

please don't let Jack anywhere near social media SO in all honesty, Jack's social media presence is minimal, if not non-existent. as much as Jack craves attention, I think he much prefers tangible attention that is physically in front of him rather than virtual attention, especially as he's not that technologically savvy or interested in technology in general. I think, even in a verse where he grew up during the technological revolution rather than being older when smartphones and social media come along, his entire ethos and aesthetic is old school rock n roll, anti-establishmentism and anti-the machine. I just can't see him getting super into social media considering that the man rarely even watches TV. the main appeal for him with social media would be to pick fights with strangers over the internet, he would find that so much fun and this is really the only reason he would set up a social media account. just to start arguments get people riled up online from the comfort of his living room. it satisfies his need to be annoying.

5. top five favourite things not available in their canon verse.

lmao okay so I could answer this in the sense of — better understanding of medical science, easier access to education and knowledge, abolition of public executions and the death penalty. all of that is a real bonus to not being in the 18th century. but if we're talking super specific and personal things to Jack: records/CDs/portable means of playing music. music obviously exists in the 18th century but there is no means of recording it and playing it back, or enjoying certain pieces of instrumental music without a full orchestra or band present lmao. Jack would love the opera and concert halls in his canon except that these are very much one-off experiences for him. in modern verse he can curate a really diverse appreciation for and taste in music across many different cultures and genres, and can physically own copies of certain songs or pieces of music. I joke a lot about how varied Jack's taste in music is, but it is really borne from the idea that it is something he enjoys so much but is restricted by in certain respects within the confines of his historical era. add to that too that he can learn to read and play sheet music, a language that is pretty much shut off to him within his lived experience in the 18th century.

going back to what I mentioned earlier but in a more specific way, education and access to knowledge. Jack didn't receive a formal education in his canon and, in teaching himself, books were often hard to come by. as much as he's not the biggest fan of the strict framework of school and university etc, he does love that easy access to knowledge, language and cultures different to his own. the modern world feels a lot smaller than the world Jack inhabits in the 18th century, but he is much more easily able to quence his insatiable need for knowledge. plus I'll talk about this below but it's much easier to get to places. it means he has fewer excuses for when he just up and vanishes from someone's life one day, but travelling is so much easier and more convenient.

9. how do they like to travel in the 21st century—both day to day life, and possible international travel?

okay so Jack's love of boats does not go away in this verse — he spends plenty of time out on Teague's boat growing up and eventually goes on to own a small clipper-style sailship in what is a really expensive hobby that he funds through his cons. this is also mostly the means by which he travels the world during his ten years after fleeing the UK. so by sea is still his preferred method of travel, however the modern world opens up his options too and the other real interest he has in this verse is the car lmao. he's a closet petrolhead and, while not a qualified mechanic by any means, spent a great deal of time at his grandfather's garage growing up and has a real enthusiasm for cars in general, as well as fixing up and driving them. this means that he loves a good road trip and would happily drive a car for miles at a time. by contrast, he can tolerate travelling by air but doesn't particularly like aeroplanes — if he wants to get somewhere in a hurry, he will fly there, but he would prefer to drive or sail if possible.

[makoonsplayschool]

English Alphabet for Kids: The Building Blocks of Learning

The English alphabet is the cornerstone of a child’s early education. It consists of 26 letters, from A to Z, and forms the foundation for reading, writing, and communication. Introducing the english alphabet for kids in an engaging and fun way is crucial for a child’s learning journey.

At Makoons Preschool, we believe in nurturing curiosity and creativity in young minds. Our curriculum focuses on teaching the alphabet through interactive and play-based methods, ensuring children develop a firm grasp of language while having fun.

Understanding the English Alphabet

The alphabet is divided into two categories:

Uppercase Letters: A, B, C, D, ... X, Y, Z

Lowercase Letters: a, b, c, d, ... x, y, z

These letters are the building blocks of words, and each letter represents a unique sound, forming the basis of phonics and language comprehension.

Why Is Learning the Alphabet Important for Kids?

Learning the alphabet is more than memorizing letters; it’s the first step toward language mastery. Here’s why it’s important:

Foundation of Literacy: Recognizing letters is essential for reading and writing.

Cognitive Development: Alphabet learning strengthens memory and problem-solving skills.

Language Skills: It helps children understand sounds and build vocabulary.

Boosts Confidence: Early alphabet mastery prepares children for further learning milestones.

How to Teach the English Alphabet to Kids

At our Preschool, we use creative and interactive teaching methods to make alphabet learning fun and effective. Here are some of our strategies

Alphabet Songs and Rhymes

Songs and rhymes are an enjoyable way for kids to memorize letters and their sounds. The rhythm and repetition help reinforce learning.

Interactive Games

Games like “Alphabet Bingo” or “I Spy” encourage kids to identify letters in their surroundings, turning learning into a playful activity

Storytelling and Picture Books

Books with vibrant pictures and alphabet-based stories captivate children’s attention and make learning enjoyable.

Sensory Activities

Using clay, sand, or blocks to form letters allows kids to learn through touch and movement.

Flashcards and Charts

Colourful alphabet charts and flashcards are great visual aids for letter recognition.

Phonics Activities

Teaching the sounds associated with each letter helps children understand the connection between letters and words.

Alphabet Learning Activities at Makoons Preschool

At Makoons Preschool, we integrate alphabet learning into daily activities to create a holistic and engaging experience.

Alphabet Art Projects: Kids create art using letters, which boosts creativity and letter recognition.

Role-Play Games: Activities like pretending to shop and identifying letters on items help reinforce learning.

Group Learning: Collaborative games and activities foster teamwork and make learning a social experience.

How Parents Can Support Alphabet Learning at Home

Parents play a vital role in their child’s early education. Here are some tips for teaching the English alphabet at home:

Read Together: Spend time reading alphabet books to your child.

Practice Writing: Encourage your child to write letters using crayons or markers.

Use Everyday Objects: Point out letters on signs, food packaging, and toys to create a connection between letters and the real world.

Celebrate Progress: Praise your child’s efforts to keep them motivated.

Why Choose Makoons Preschool?

At Makoons Preschool, we go beyond traditional teaching methods to create a child-centred learning environment.we are in top 10 preschool in India. Here’s why parents trust us:

Interactive Curriculum: Our alphabet learning activities are designed to spark curiosity and engagement.

Experienced Educators: Our teachers use innovative methods to cater to every child’s unique learning style.

Play-Based Learning: We make learning enjoyable, ensuring kids look forward to coming to school.

Focus on Overall Development: Beyond the alphabet, we focus on nurturing cognitive, social, and emotional skills.

Fun Facts About the Alphabet

The letter “E” is the most commonly used letter in English.

The alphabet originated from the Phoenician script, which dates back thousands of years.

Some languages have alphabets with more or fewer letters than English, such as Russian (33 letters) or Hawaiian (12 letters).

Conclusion

The English alphabet is the gateway to a world of knowledge and communication for kids. By introducing it in fun and engaging ways, we can help children develop a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

At Makoons Preschool, we provide a nurturing environment where children can explore the wonders of language and grow into confident learners. Together, let’s make learning the alphabet a joyful and memorable experience!

for more intresting and easy knowledge check out our blogs.

[quirkthieves]

37! (from any of my guys whoever works!)

The Iron Maiden and The Dreamy Princess by DouwaP ft. Kagamine Rin

[CONTENT WARNING! The song and MV contain flashing images, eyestrain, and animated depictions + descriptions of intense gore (including eye horror) so anyone interested in listening proceed with caution!]

[Geten] is a prince prone to dreaming.

"Hi!" The prisoner was in one of his better moods today. Swaying in his seat, he looks around the room with a placid smile. It could be hard to believe this was a Titan class prisoner. He was small, for one; clocking in at 4'11", with dainty hands and an oval face. Under baggy shirts and pants, however, the dense muscle of a soldier revealed itself, and broad shoulders unfolded when the young man stopped slouching.

[Geten’s] lineage, the [Himura] family, were a noble family. When you trace that bloodline, you find abnormal kin—

In the fluorescent lights, against a background of white walls, he flickers in and out like a ghost. Silky white hair, cut haphazardly, blur his silhouette as the light bounces off of it, and thick white lashes hide eyes with so little pigment they might as well be glass. His greeting and dark clothing is what keeps him grounded in this world, because frost has already started to creep along the chair he was sat in.

"I know of you!" He leans forward, and the guards behind him tense, but he does nothing to leave his cross-legged position. "Re-Destro admired you. You were in jail, but he told me about you. Learning to aim like you from the videos made me stronger." Geten seems absolutely delighted by the individual they've sent to speak with him, and there's no hostility in his voice when he speaks again. "I wonder which one of us would win in a fight. I'd like to see if I really can do it."

Again, the guards shift in place, but it had been long enough that most involved in his case understood that it wasn't a threat. It's simply the only language he knows.

It is an unprecedented tragedy of atrocity.

The recovered footage of the attack on Deika-- unedited-- demonstrated just how long the League of Villains had been getting stronger, just how early on they had been able to unleash hell upon an entire city. But the one who had surpassed the death tolls of Twice, Shigaraki, even Gigantomachia--

{The ground quakes and groans. Roads warp. In less than a minute, dozens of cameras capture the earth splintering apart as peaks of ice emerge, cleaving buildings and turning hoards of clones into mush. Deika City, population of 110,000 people, around 40 sq. miles in size, was torn to pieces along every major water line. Blue flames engulfed blocks at a time, but the ice would continue its slow conquest anyway. The local watershed had almost been destroyed. Wildlife was torn to pieces or flash-frozen as the ice dropped in temperature in order to propagate.}

There were many methods of slaughter,

Power like that doesn't come without experience. The Meta Liberation had its fair share of enemies through the years, both inside and out.

eye-gouging,

Ice is a great weapon, isn't it? Eventually, it disappears.

chopping off fingers,

Some of the soldiers arrested had missing digits. The wounds weren't fresh, but they were consistent.

tearing out their guts,

Geten is praised for his efficacy in emails between Re-Destro and an advisor stationed elsewhere. Showing lots of promise!

removing their lower jaws,

Shigaraki's destruction has very specific effects; some of the bodies recovered were crumbling to dust-- but they had been mummified for a long time. Temperatures in Aichi don't get cold enough for ice mummies, typically.

Among all the different torture devices, the one that [Re-Destro] loved the most was one famous for its cruelty and unusual shape:

Like any proud teacher, pictures of Geten's sculptural expertise throughout the years were kept by Yotsubashi. Isn't he talented?

"Iron Maiden."

Cementoss was the keystone of the Villa Raid. And he paid the price for that importance. It was a miracle, the doctors said, that his thick skin kept the ice from going a millimeter deeper and puncturing something fatal.

A bizarre stench enveloped the [villa], and whether they excavated the garden or pulled down the walls: corpses, corpses, corpses, corpses.

Without running away or resisting, [Geten] sat innocently in his [cell]. [Atsuhiro Sako] spoke in court several days later:

“It was as if he was an innocent boy who knew nothing of the world.”

[Kiyotaka Himura] was in a dream all along.

"Why'd you want to speak to me? I thought I did the disposition." He's confused his last word-- deposition-- but he's bright eyed and cognizant.

"Have you spoken with Re-Destro? I think you'd like him. He's very smart. If you have more questions, he knows a lot more than I do."

[futurelanguage]

Learn to Speak European Languages Like a Native

Learning German opens doors to diverse opportunities, whether for career advancement, travel, or personal growth. Whether you’re in Urmar Tanda or elsewhere, having the right resources and guidance is essential. This article explores the best tools, strategies, and classes available to help you excel in German, and also highlights opportunities for learning Dutch and French in Urmar Tanda.

Why Learn German?

German is one of the most widely spoken languages in Europe, and mastering it can enhance your professional and personal life. From understanding rich German literature to advancing your career in multinational companies, there are numerous reasons to learn the language.

Best German Language Classes in Urmar Tanda

If you’re in Best German Language Classes in Urmar Tanda and seeking structured guidance, there are excellent classes tailored to different proficiency levels. Many of these programs focus on:

Interactive Teaching Methods: These classes incorporate group discussions, role-playing, and real-life scenarios to build conversational fluency.

Experienced Instructors: Trainers are often certified professionals who provide personalized attention to every student.

Flexible Timings: Options for weekend, evening, or online classes cater to diverse schedules.

For those in Urmar Tanda, exploring local German language centers is a great first step.

Benefits of Joining a Class

Consistency: Regular sessions keep you committed.

Personalized Feedback: Instructors can correct mistakes and guide your learning process.

Community Learning: Collaborating with peers enhances motivation and learning.

Online Platforms for Mastering German

In addition to physical classes, online resources can be a game-changer. Here are some of the top platforms:

1. Duolingo

A beginner-friendly app offering bite-sized lessons in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Its gamified approach makes learning fun and interactive.

2. Babbel

Focused on practical conversations, Babbel provides real-world scenarios and cultural insights. The platform is ideal for those aiming for conversational fluency.

3. Goethe-Institut Online Courses

The Goethe-Institut is a renowned organization for learning German. Their online courses are structured, interactive, and follow internationally recognized standards.

4. YouTube Tutorials

Channels like “Learn German with Anja” or “Easy German” offer free lessons, covering everything from grammar basics to advanced conversation skills.

Additional Tools to Enhance Your Learning

1. Flashcard Apps

Apps like Anki and Quizlet help reinforce vocabulary through spaced repetition.

2. German Podcasts

Podcasts like “Coffee Break German” and “Slow German” are perfect for improving listening comprehension.

3. Language Exchange Platforms

Apps like Tandem and HelloTalk connect you with native speakers for real-time practice.

4. Books and E-Books

Start with simple storybooks or dual-language editions to familiarize yourself with German sentence structures.

Tips for Effective Language Learning

Set Clear Goals: Define why you’re learning and set achievable milestones.

Practice Daily: Consistency is key to mastering any language.

Immerse Yourself: Watch German movies, listen to songs, and read articles in German.

Speak Without Fear: Focus on communication rather than perfection.

Exploring French and Dutch Language Opportunities

While mastering German might be your primary goal, learning French and Dutch can also be beneficial.

French Language Classes in Urmar Tanda

For those interested in French, local classes in French Language Classes in Urmar Tanda focus on:

Building a strong foundation in grammar and vocabulary.

Enhancing conversational skills for travel and work.

Preparing for proficiency exams like DELF and DALF.

Dutch Language Classes in Urmar Tanda

Dutch Language Classes in Urmar Tanda, being a gateway to opportunities in the Netherlands and Belgium, is gaining popularity. Classes in Urmar Tanda often emphasize:

Practical communication for work and travel.

Understanding Dutch culture and customs.

Interactive lessons that blend language with real-world scenarios.

Conclusion

Mastering German, French, or Dutch requires dedication, the right resources, and a supportive learning environment. If you’re in Urmar Tanda, take advantage of the local and online options available to you. From traditional classes to cutting-edge apps, a world of language learning awaits.

Embark on your linguistic journey today and unlock a future full of opportunities!

[delivermytuneo6]

The Role of Data Science in Music Discovery

In the age of music streaming, the way we discover music has undergone a seismic shift. Gone are the days of flipping through radio stations or browsing shelves at record stores to find the next great track. Instead, we are now guided by personalized playlists, expertly crafted by data science algorithms that understand our preferences, behaviors, and even moods. This revolution in music discovery is reshaping the music industry and redefining how artists connect with their audiences.

The Birth of Personalized Playlists

The concept of personalized playlists began with the rise of streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, and YouTube Music. These platforms transformed music consumption by offering vast libraries of songs at the click of a button. However, the overwhelming abundance of music created a paradox: while users had access to millions of tracks, finding music they truly loved became increasingly challenging.

Enter data science. By analyzing user behavior—such as listening history, skipped tracks, and search queries—streaming platforms began creating curated playlists tailored to individual tastes. This innovation not only enhanced user experience but also paved the way for artists to find niche audiences and gain exposure.

How Data Science Powers Music Discovery

The technology behind personalized playlists is a combination of machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), and big data analytics. These systems work together to analyze vast amounts of data and create music recommendations that feel uniquely personal. Here’s how it works:

Collaborative Filtering: Collaborative filtering is one of the most commonly used techniques in music recommendation systems. It analyzes user behavior to find patterns among listeners with similar preferences. For instance, if User A and User B have overlapping playlists, the system might recommend songs that User A enjoys to User B and vice versa. This method thrives on the principle that “users who liked X also liked Y.”

Content-Based Filtering: Unlike collaborative filtering, which relies on user behavior, content-based filtering focuses on the characteristics of the music itself. This involves analyzing metadata, such as genre, tempo, instrumentation, and lyrics, to match tracks with a listener's preferences. If a user frequently listens to acoustic folk songs, the algorithm will prioritize tracks with similar acoustic qualities.

Natural Language Processing (NLP): NLP enables platforms to analyze textual data, such as song lyrics, artist bios, and even user-generated reviews. By understanding the semantic meaning of these texts, NLP algorithms can suggest songs that align with a listener’s mood or lyrical preferences.

Deep Learning: Advanced deep learning models take recommendation systems to the next level by analyzing more complex patterns in user behavior. These models can detect subtle preferences, such as a user's tendency to listen to upbeat tracks in the morning or relaxing instrumentals at night.

Context-Aware Recommendations: Modern systems are increasingly incorporating context-aware technologies. These algorithms consider factors like time of day, location, and device usage to tailor recommendations. For example, a user commuting during rush hour might receive energetic tracks, while the same user relaxing at home in the evening might be served mellow tunes.

Benefits for Listeners

For listeners, personalized playlists offer several key benefits:

Effortless Exploration: Personalized playlists eliminate the need for extensive searching. Whether it's a "Discover Weekly" playlist on Spotify or a "Your Mix" on YouTube Music, these curated collections introduce users to new artists and songs with minimal effort.

Mood-Based Listening: Many platforms now offer mood-specific playlists, such as "Happy Hits" or "Chill Vibes." These playlists leverage data science to match music with emotional states, enhancing user satisfaction and engagement.

Increased Relevance: The more a user interacts with a platform, the better the recommendations become. Over time, the system learns individual preferences with remarkable precision, ensuring that suggested tracks align closely with the listener's tastes.

Opportunities for Artists and Labels

Personalized playlists are not just a boon for listeners; they also open new doors for artists and labels:

Breaking Into New Audiences: Data-driven algorithms help lesser-known artists gain exposure by recommending their music to users who might appreciate their style. This democratizes the music industry, allowing emerging talents to compete with established stars.

Data-Driven Decision-Making: Artists and labels can access detailed analytics about listener demographics, preferences, and engagement. This information helps them tailor marketing strategies, plan tours, and even decide on future musical directions.

Revenue Generation: Playlists like Spotify’s “Discover Weekly” or Apple Music’s “New Music Mix” can generate significant streams for featured artists, boosting royalty earnings and visibility.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

While the benefits of personalized playlists are clear, they also raise important questions:

Algorithmic Bias: Algorithms can unintentionally reinforce biases, favoring certain genres, regions, or artists over others. This could limit diversity in music discovery and create an uneven playing field.

Data Privacy: Personalization relies heavily on user data, raising concerns about privacy and data security. Platforms must balance innovation with ethical data usage.

Over-Personalization: Excessive reliance on personalized playlists can lead to a "filter bubble," where users are exposed only to familiar styles and genres. This could stifle exploration and limit cultural exchange.

The Future of Music Discovery

As technology continues to evolve, the future of personalized playlists looks even more promising. Emerging trends include:

AI-Generated Music: Algorithms are beginning to create music tailored to individual preferences, blurring the line between discovery and creation.

Voice Interaction: With the rise of smart speakers, users can now request mood-specific playlists through voice commands, making music discovery even more intuitive.

Cross-Platform Personalization: Future systems may integrate data from multiple platforms—such as fitness apps, social media, and streaming services—to provide hyper-personalized recommendations.

Conclusion

Personalized playlists represent a paradigm shift in the music industry, seamlessly blending technology and artistry to create meaningful connections between listeners and music. As data science continues to advance, the possibilities for innovation in music discovery are endless. While challenges remain, the benefits of enhanced personalization are undeniable, offering a future where every listener’s journey is as unique as their taste in music.