#missed the christmas theme but they’re both goddesses

[purpled-royalty]

Acier & Williow ✨

Acier and Willow for my Secret Santa gift ☃️🎄

HAPPY EARLY CHRISTMAS PHOEBE DEAR @1phoebe1 🎁

[cheri-translates]

[CN] Kiro’s Inspiration Date (Eng Translation)

🍒 Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for a date, 灵感之约, which has not been released in English servers! 🍒

An early birthday gift to the embodiment of sunshine, @moondusks​ :>

[ This date was released in CN on 7 December 2020 ]

A pleasantly warm and light breeze lifts the muslin curtains, bringing with it the fresh atmosphere of early winter.

Lemon yellow sunlight filters lazily through the trees, casting shadows on the window and carrying the scent of peppermint.

It’s an incomparably ordinary, and incomparably comfortable afternoon.

It’s very suitable for heading out and casting aside one’s cares - laying down on a grass patch, basking in the warm sunlight.

Or perhaps taking a stroll along the street, and sitting down in a cafe one has been longing to visit.

That’s what Kiro and I originally planned to do. 

However, the cruel reality is...

MC: Why does this proposal have to be done by next week ahhhh--

Kiro: Why can’t I write this song properly--

MC: Why do people need to be exploited by work--

Kiro: [sighs] And why are people constrained by inspiration--

Because of a sudden program, I have no choice but to work overtime.

And Kiro, who is about to record a new album, has remained dissatisfied towards the title track.

Due to the pressures of reality, we have to give up our original plans of having a fulfilling and happy date.

The both of us are working overtime at home.

Kiro: [groans] Farewell, my rosy weekend. Goodbye, my donuts and soup dumplings which have vanished into thin air.

MC: And brown sugar milk coffee, taro pies, and lava cakes...

Even though we sing the same tune, complaining dejectedly about not being able to go out, the both of us work non-stop on our tasks.

I can hear the crisp sound of Kiro tapping his pen rhythmically against the music stand. Occasionally, his soft humming can also be heard.

Seeing him working hard and struggling with himself, the corners of my lips lift upwards.

Even though we’re unable to head outside to do something interesting, it isn’t a bad thing to be together at home like this, channelling effort into our differing goals.

In some way, this should also count as a type of date.

I smile, adjusting my posture on the bean bag so that it’s more comfortable for typing, then continue immersing myself in the battle against the program proposal.

-

The proposal I’m working on is extremely urgent, and has to be settled by next week. 

Not only that, but this sudden program has an importance accompanied by a non-proportional preparation timing.

And during such a period of high stress, the goddess of inspiration, who typically shows concern for me, has gone on a faraway vacation, and has  completely vanished.

I have trouble writing. When I completely lose my train of thought, I exchange helpless glances with the few words on the screen.

In the end, I give up and pause the hands which have been maltreating the keyboard, preparing to pour myself a glass of water, and attempt to change my mood.

Lifting my head, I subconsciously glance in Kiro’s direction.

The curtains separate the room from sunlight, casting Kiro in a faint shadow as he leans against the window while composing a song.

Busy writing the new song, he hasn’t had time to maintain the state of his hair. 

Finding stray hairs a hindrance as they block his vision, Kiro holds a rubber band in his mouth, combing his hair to the back, and ties it into a small ponytail.

Those azure eyes stare at the music score in concentration. They are as clear and bright as always, but lack the flash of light he usually has when inspiration strikes.

Reference materials and abandoned drafts are scattered all over, which seem to isolate him on a higher platform which I’m unable to reach.

Completely engrossed in creating his work, even his languid sitting posture exudes a cold and lonely feeling for some reason.

For a moment, I feel slightly dazed.

Kiro: Let me guess. Is Miss Chips lacking inspiration, and having trouble writing the proposal?

Kiro suddenly removes his earplugs, turning his head to look at me. 

He shows me a brilliant smile, and the room is once again filled with sunlight.

MC: How did you know? 

He stands up as well, stretching himself, turning back into the him that I’m most familiar with.

It’s as though the him of just a few seconds ago was simply an illusion surfacing from work-induced stress.

Kiro: Hmm... since just now, the sound of your keyboard has been intermittent, unlike how smooth it usually is.

While he speaks, Kiro walks to the snack cabinet and rifles through it carefully, as though he’s a small squirrel searching for a pine cone from the hole of a tree in winter.

Kiro: So I thought - Miss Chips is probably just like me, entering a bottleneck at work.

He splits the low-fat and sugar-free healthy snack into half, placing it into my hand.

Kiro: A little reward for the hardworking you. Now, do you feel more motivated?

MC: It sounds quite embarrassing... but I don’t think I can work any harder.

I munch on the snack which gives me absolutely no happiness, saying this with a sullen expression.

MC: The presentation is next week, but I still have no idea how to go about writing the proposal. Right now, I just want to turn into an ostrich and curl up into a ball, avoiding the presentation meeting in a few days... and also avoiding my unmotivated self.

I turn the laptop towards him, letting him see the lonely and piteous 235 words in the document.

MC: I even want to knock on my brain forcefully, checking to see if new ideas will appear.

Kiro: Hmm... I see...

Kiro curls his finger, tapping it gently against my forehead. He leans closer to my ear and asks a question.

Kiro: Nice to meet you, Miss Chips’ inspiration. May I know if you’re at home?

Following his action, I close my eyes and sense it carefully.

After a short silence, I furrow my brows and lift my head, looking at him bitterly.

MC: Hello, the user you’re calling is not in service...

Kiro reaches out to rub the area between my eyebrows, smoothening out the creases on my face.

After ensuring that I’m no longer a “bun”, he sighs, laying down next to me.

[Note] Chinese buns (包子 - “bao zi”)  look like this i.e. they look like wrinkles:

Kiro: [sighs] Actually, I’m the same as you. There’s a song I especially wish to write, and I really like the concept and composition. I want to try writing a song on understanding and interpreting the theme of “love” from my own perspective.

He pauses, lifting his fringe with a wry smile. After give it a forceful rub, he causes his originally tidy hairstyle to become fuzzy.

Kiro: But no matter how I change it, I’m not satisfied. I keep feeling as though something is missing from the music. There’s no soul.

I untie the string, using a hand to smoothen his hair, helping him tie it up properly again.

MC: Whether it’s “My Treasure” or the song we wrote together last Christmas, aren’t they very incredible? They’re tender and sweet - it’s as though they can be sung into the hearts of every listener, enabling them to recollect the best memories.

Kiro: That won’t do.

Kiro flips over and sits up, his eyes serious.

Kiro: Those songs write about us. They write about you. I have several thousand ways to write about how adorable you are, but I don’t know which timbre I should use to face myself.

Not realising how potent his words are in causing one to blush, Kiro sighs once again after speaking, laying back down.

Kiro: [sighs] Looks like this time, we’ve both chosen subjects which are very difficult for us.

-

Kiro: Since we’ve both sunk into a major crisis--

Kiro: Want to try Kiro’s special, secret recipe and see if it can sort out our thinking?

Kiro shoots me a wink.

MC: Sure. Do I need to do anything?

Kiro: At this stage, all you have to do is sit here.

While Kiro speaks, he picks up the abandoned drafts he had casually thrown on the floor earlier, using them to enclose us within a square frame.

Kiro: This is the thinking box that we’re trying to escape from.

He sets down the final sheet of paper, completing this “box”, his tone light.

Kiro: Right now, we’re both locked in it.

MC: In that case, will the superhero help me break this box, so we can have a breakthrough together?

Kiro: Nope. 

Kiro steps out of the square frame made out of drafts, reaching out to seize Cello, who is sleeping soundly on the cat climbing shelf. Then, he places it in my arms.

Cello: Meow?

Kiro nods in satisfaction, then jogs over to the kitchen, bringing over some fruits.

Under the confused gaze of both me and Cello, he makes several trips in and out, bringing over soft cushions, comfortable blankets, and two cups of sugar-free hot chocolate.

Finally, Kiro shifts another bean bag over, and sits down beside me.

Kiro: I’m incredibly sorry to tell you that even a superhero can’t find a way to jump out of this box.

Somewhat pleased with himself, he takes me into his arms with one hand, letting me lean on him.

Kiro: But at the very least, I can keep you company in this box. And together, we can see what exactly in this box has left us so bewildered that we’re unable to get out even after such a long time. 

As he speaks, he tousles Cello’s fuzzy head, and it releases a comfortable meow.

Kiro: We can also decorate it a little, so the box is more comfortable. 

MC: Pfft...

I can’t help but laugh. The sense of dejectedness due to work earlier seems to be cleared up with his actions.

I reach out, pointing at a corner of the ceiling in a joking manner. 

MC: See that? Over there, there’s an MC who just can’t write a proposal, and she’s currently curled up and for waiting for mushrooms to sprout on her... I don’t know how to deal with it.

Kiro nods in understanding, pointing at a corner of the room.

Kiro: Ladies and gentlemen, look here. Here is a Kiro whose inspiration is stuck, and is currently drawing circles. 

MC: When you put it like that, it sounds pretty cute...

While he speaks, I more or less understand why Kiro went to such trouble to do this.

Kiro: That’s right. To me, whether it’s that ostrich-like MC, or that MC who has mushrooms growing on her, I want to hug all of them properly.

Kiro: And then tell her solemnly - that you’re already very amazing. Even if you don’t think you’re good enough, I still like you very much.

Kiro: Just as much as a little bear in winter liking the warm blue sky and green grass.

As he speaks, he tightens his grip on my hand, leaning his chin on top of my head.

Surrounding me are soft blankets and cushions. In my arms is a cat which has gone back to sleep.

Behind me, Kiro’s body temperature and scent encase me tenderly, making me feel so contented that I want to release a joyful sound together with Cello.

I close my eyes in happiness, nuzzling the crook of Kiro’s neck.

The things that were bothering me just a second ago, weighing me down with stress and emotions and leaving me unable to breathe, vanish like smoke and disperse like clouds.

It’s as though I’ve awakened from an incredibly long nightmare, discovering that sunlight is illuminating my surroundings, and that a cup of hot chocolate is waiting at the bedside.

MC: Kiro, why do you always know of such ingenious methods?

I lift my head to look at him, gazing at that blue colour which seeps into one’s heart, and the golden colour traced by sunlight.

Our foreheads lean against each other, and he smiles as he responds.

Kiro: You were the one who taught me these things. Why are you asking me instead?

MC: Me? 

Kiro: Last time, there were numerous occasions when I felt I couldn’t create works that were good enough, and I’d start to doubt myself. I’d lock myself in a corner, and start having internal fights with myself. 

Along with his words, it’s as though I see the Kiro I was barely acquainted with back then, and how he had endured several days and nights of work.

He had locked himself up in a room, helpless and frantic, not leaving any space for himself to breathe. 

Kiro: But during those times, you were always by my side. You told me that no matter how I was, you’d like me all the same. 

As he speaks, he taps on my laptop. 

Kiro: Actually, it’s the same today. 

Kiro: Don’t just look at how I appear now. Actually, I’m in a terrible state. 

Kiro: On one hand, I’m forcing myself to finish this work quickly. On the other hand, I’m so irritated and annoyed at myself, who lacks creativity. 

Kiro: There were many times when I wanted to just give up. 

Kiro: But...

He lifts a strand of my hair, twirling it around his fingertip. In the end, he pulls it to his lips, giving it a gentle kiss.

Kiro: Each time I heard your intermittent yet continuous typing sounds, I’d tell myself that next to me, you’re still working hard. 

Kiro: My Miss Chips is also feeling perplexed, but she’s still persevering in work. 

Kiro: So I told myself - how could I give up before you did?

Kiro: I must definitely persevere a little longer, so you see how dashing I am. 

Kiro relates this softly at my ear. His tone, which harbours a smile, sounds as though he’s depicting a treasure.

I indulge myself in his arms, greedily enjoying the present tranquility and warm atmosphere for a while longer.

I always feel that Kiro is a star whenever I go off course. He always illuminates the pathway, pointing the way forward for me. 

Actually, without even realising it, it’s because we’ve seen each others’ light that we could press on.

Encouraging each other, and feeling the way forward in the darkness. 

Until we break through the predicament together.

MC: Thank you, my superhero. I think I’ve regained the ability to fight a little more.

A soft chuckle brushes my ear. Then, a warm and gentle touch is planted on my lower jaw. 

Reminiscent of the whiskers of a kitten brushing past, spreading into a plain of sweetness.

Kiro: At your service anytime, my Miss Chips.

-

With that, Kiro and I sit in the “box” together, resuming our work. 

He lays on the ground, scribbling and drawing on the music sheet, while I hug the laptop to myself, working hard to squeeze out a proposal.

The typing sounds on the laptop remain intermittent as before, but no longer have the sense of repression and frustration from earlier.

With his presence, I actually manage to complete a draft of the proposal without realising it. 

It isn’t excellent, and there are many areas which require editing. Nevertheless, I’ve already tided over the most difficult period.

I move my neck and shoulders, then shift a little closer to Kiro.

Same as before, Kiro is wholly absorbed in the music sheet in his hands.

Even though I can’t tell his current progress, based on his expression and posture, he should be the same as me, breaking free from the lowest point of production.

I observe him quietly for a long time. In the end, my playfulness triumphs, and I think of pulling a tiny prank on him.

Lifting Kiro’s right hand, I burrow into his arms. 

MC: Surprise~

Probably not expecting me to do this, Kiro is left dumbfounded. However, he subconsciously props himself up and hugs me. 

Kiro: Miss Chips?

MC: A little reward for the hardworking musician.

Saying this, I tilt my head upwards and give him a light peck on the chin.

My sudden attack and the closing of distance between us enables me to successfully capture the faint redness on Kiro’s face.

Kiro: ...mm, how’s your proposal doing?

MC: At the moment, there are positive prospects.

Just like this, I wrap my arms around his neck, tousling his soft, golden coloured hair.

Because of my action, the ponytail is now in disarray.

I simply hook my fingers underneath Kiro’s rubber band, untying it, feeling the softness of his hair in between my fingers.

MC: How’s your song doing?

Kiro: At the moment, there are positive prospects.

He mimics my words, inserting one earplug into my ear.

A somewhat rough demo occupies my hearing.

I close my eyes, immersed in the music he has given to me. My fingers twirl the wire of the earpiece, tracing the rhythm.

Kiro: Although it isn’t done yet, the overall main key won’t change.

It’s a somewhat slow tune.

It's quiet, and even brings with it a heavy and melancholic melody. It’s reminiscent of a self-reflection, and also like a careful recount.

Kiro: Even though this tune is a little sombre, I still wrote it. 

Kiro: Because I know you’d definitely say that you like such songs too.

MC: Of course.

I say this with certainty. He smiles and lowers his head, the tips of our noses gently touching.

MC: Kiro, I came across a saying once.

MC: The process of writing a song is actually a writer’s conversation with himself.

MC: Although I don’t know what you said to yourself, if this melody is your answer, I like it very much.

Our drifting breaths channel a temperature slightly higher than the sunlight.

MC: Including these slightly heavy portions - I like them very much.

Saying this, I crinkle my eyes, humming along with the melody from the earpiece.

Kiro releases a sigh, hugging me tightly.

Kiro: [sighs] Why does this song become so sweet when you hum it? 

Before I can respond, Kiro continues. 

Kiro: [laughs] It must be because MC is a jar of honey.

He nods with force, seeming to be very satisfied with this answer. Then, it’s as though something occurs to him, and he plants a kiss on my forehead. 

Kiro: See? It’s very sweet.

MC: What...

I laugh, pretending to push at his chest.

MC: Looks like I have to stay a little further away from you next time, so you won’t become overweight.

Kiro: Hehe, it’s already too late! My feelings come in large portions, so it’s too late to say that.

Kiro presses me against the woollen blanket, embracing me with even more strength than before.

Kiro: Miss Chips has already been firmly held onto by me.

Kiro: I’ll leave a stamp.

While he says this, he nibbles the side of my neck half-jokingly, and half-declaratory.

He doesn’t use strength, but the electric-like sensation makes me forget how to breathe for a moment. 

The charmingly tepid air leaves my cheeks burning crimson.

Kiro’s hug is tight, yet very careful. It’s as though he’s embracing the one and only treasure in the entire world. 

MC: It’s not like I can really run away...

Not minding my soft mumbling, another kiss descends on the shell of my ear, as though seeking a confirmation.

His breaths lift up strands of stray hair near my ear. They brush against my earlobe, as scorching as his lips.

Kiro: MC, I’m actually timid and a little childish.

Kiro buries his head in my shoulder, speaking softly.

Kiro: When it comes to things I don’t like, I’ll always think of hiding them and locking them up. I won’t see them, and I won’t let other people see them.

Kiro: But if it’s you...

I secretly take a few deep breaths, cradling his face a little stiffly yet carefully, tilting my head upwards. 

MC: Thank you for trusting me.

Kiro: ...

Kiro’s eyes widen slightly, and his lips part and close. It’s as though he wants to say something, but returns to a blank.

At the end of a short silence, Kiro speaks solemnly. 

Kiro: I’ll definitely finish this song. 

He lowers his voice slightly. Even though this sentence is as light as a feather, I know that he’s as serious as making a vow. 

Kiro: I’ll definitely finish this song, and sing various versions of myself to you in the future.

Kiro: Even the parts which are heavier, and the parts I’m unwilling to face myself.

MC: Mm. I’ll definitely listen earnestly.

Following the trail of his spine, I stroke his back lightly, giving him my promise.

Kiro: I know. 

Kiro: It’s precisely because no matter what melody it is, you’ll definitely sing it into a song akin to honey.

Kiro: Which is why I have such courage. 

I no longer speak, only giving him a serious nod.

Both his breathing and heart beats can be heard, regular and steady.

Kiro: Since we’ve reached an agreement, should I leave another stamp?

Kiro’s voice is once again light-hearted, even carrying with it a twinge of slyness. 

MC: Wait! The most important thing now should be noting down the hard-earned inspiration before it goes away!

I grip several music sheets at the side, pressing them against his chest, attempting to flee from his arms.

MC: Get to work quickly!

Kiro: Why are you like this?

Kiro pouts, showing me his signature, puppy-eyed expression of dejection.

MC: I won’t be duped by your gaze again. I’m going to become a merciless supervisor, so you can finish your work before the deadline!

Seeing that his plan has been foiled, Kiro simply gives up “pretending”. With a smile, he grips my struggling wrist, pressing it to the side. 

MC: Where’s your professionalism? Could it...

A prolonged kiss seals up the words I haven’t spoken.

Kiro: It’s exactly because of my professionalism that I can say with certainty...

Kiro smiles, his sapphire-like eyes radiating an azure colour even more eye-catching than the clear skies of winter.

Perhaps he hasn’t realised it himself, but he looks at me with the most burning and clear gaze, sticking out the tip of his tongue. Like a dragonfly flitting across water, he wets his lower lip.

Kiro: Before my inspiration vanishes, there’s still time to act coquettishly with my favourite Miss Chips.

-

Phone calls: First // Second

[taesthetes]

hi! it's time to mention some mutuals you love!! for 🌸spring 🌞summer 🍁autumn and ❄winter mention one or more mutual you associate with that season

adfkjhlsk omg okay i hope i don’t forget anyone, but here we gooo

@kthartics – an gets the entire year because she put up with me for four years now, so one year for each season!! i still can’t believe we started talking on taeyeon and yoongi’s birthday out of all the 365 ¼ days in a year, but anyway, you’re stuck with me forever so you get all four seasons. love you, pablo, mean ho, side ho(e)bi, euijin lover

🌸 spring ;

@rosaetae – min my love i miss talking to her so she reminds me of the bts’s spring day lyrics as well as one of my favorite flowers: the morning glory / moonflower because it’s gorgeous and it blooms at night and it’s always worth staying up to see :’)

@yoongihime – sassi, another favorite flower goddess of mine, she’s literally so pretty and talented i just ??? she reminds me of picture perfect polaroids, cherry blossom trees, abstract water color paintings, and literally every other aesthetic instagram thing.

@lufancy – honestly i just associate her with luhan forever my exo bias whose bday is coming up (and this is around the same time I got into exo) and they’re both very very stunning people who i am literally in awe of all the time, and this is the same way i feel about flowers, especially sunset roses, and those roses are finally blooming in my front yard!!! so she reminds me of sunset roses and nostalgia and first love.

🌞 summer ;

@vantae – because talking to betsy makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. she reminds me of drinking fizzy strawberry lemonade through fun bendy straws and sticky cherry popsicles on a hot day and funnel cakes at the fair. and she also reminds me of summer love where regardless of the shortness of time, it is always worth it because of the person you spent the time with. oh, and we will have an amusement park date someday which is ideal for summer!!

@milknotes – rochelle!!! my favorite tae bae unstan, she’s currently spending time in a country with hot weather, so i’m immediately thinking of summer. also, she’s very hot, too. just facts™. but she also reminds me of days by the pool, eating refrigerated watermelon slices, and spying on the cute lifeguards (aka jungkook for her).

@kingdomtae – this is partially because of red summer, which is the rv album ave used to introduce me to rv and i was a goner after that. but also because she reminds me of my summer vacations, which equal trips to europe and trying every single pastry shop from italy to france to greece and sipping on a different bottle of good wine every dinner.

🍁 autumn ;

@cheelchan – because cheel reminds me of comfort and warmth, like wearing wooly coats and beanies and scarves while sipping on warm caramel macchiatos with whipped cream, and walking down streets lined with trees that are shedding its multicolor leaves.

@syubits – because elfie, jimin’s baby angel, lover of samurai love ballad party, reminds me of the excitement of starting a new school year. she reminds me of the smell of new books, the excitement of using brand new pens, and lined paper soon to be filled with new knowledge.

@1rapmon – because del and the love of her life’s birthdays are both in autumn where i live, and she reminds me of meeting new people and the thrilling feeling of making a new best friend with the girl who sits next to you in philosophy. she reminds me of the butterflies that comes with a new beginning, a fresh slate, a start of a new chapter.

❄ winter ;

@jimlingss – because we started talking during this season, plus our mutual love for winter fashion is a sign. she reminds me of those days when the rain pitter patters on the roof above and you just lie in bed, wrapped in a blanket burrito, surrounded by cute plushies and reading a good book that you just can’t seem to put down.

@minigguk – because i associate my favorite season with one of my favoritest people!!! winter also marks the season where great uncle mel dragged me further down into nct and seventeen and monsta x. she reminds me of leaving mark for three other dudes sitting in front of a fireplace wrapped in warm blankets and holding holiday themed mugs filled with hot chocolate and tiny marshmallows.

@kidguk – she just screams winter to me for some reason?? maybe it’s because she reminds me of disloyalty the fun festivities that come every time at the end of the year, like stringing up multicolored, blinking lights, baking cookies, decorating a tree, wearing ugly sweaters, spending time with family, and putting out treats and milk for santa the night before christmas.

[vincentbuckles]

Low cost warm weather getaways for winter

Reading Time: 5 mins

You know those annoying people who pop up whenever it gets cold? “Too cold is better than too hot! Because layers!”

Nope. You know they’re only deluding themselves. The only real way to thaw is a few days of pure, unadulterated sun… except this is the UK.  

So what’s the solution? It’s time for a low cost warm weather winter getaway! Christmas is always a time tighten your purse strings, so we’ve gone hunting for some of the best warm weather deals we could find. 

December vs January

Save money on accommodation fees

Muscat, Oman

Doha, Qatar

Pafos, Republic of Cyprus

Casablanca, Morocco

Tenerife, Canary Islands

December vs january 

The only problem is that everyone has the same idea all at once, and the airlines have noticed this.

Many enjoy a Christmas or New Year overseas with friends or family, and as such late December can be a pricey month for a quick getaway.

Of course, this is also the time when schools and universities grant their students some freedom, which increases prices even more.  

That’s why (if possible) you should try to make your escape during January or February.

Although they may seem less wintery in the popular imagination, both months are usually colder and more depressing than December – even more of a reason to get away to the warm weather.

Flight prices drop significantly in line with the drop in demand, so book some time off work for you and your partner and enjoy a few low-cost days of glorious warm sunshine.  

Save money on accomodation fees 

Aside from flights, this can be the big financial sticking point when it comes to planning a holiday. However, there are always ways to get a great bargain even if it doesn’t look that way. 

Leaving the booking of hotels until nearer the date of departure can be one method, as hotels will often drop prices in order to fill up empty rooms. Setting up a tracker to watch online prices and availability is one way to make sure you don’t miss out. 

Alternatively, you could ditch the hotel altogether and stay in a hostel instead. These are expressly designed for those on a budget but can still be very comfortable and in great locations. They usually also offer self-catering facilities so you can whip up spaghetti bolognaise instead of eating out each evening. 

How about simply staying in someone else’s home? AirBnB or house-swapping are both economical solutions – in fact, apart from a small subscription to the website, house-swapping is entirely free! You can read more about it in our article here. Staying in the home of a local is also a fantastic way to meet new people and make new friends 

For more ideas on saving money on holiday, check out these articles here and here. 

Muscat, Oman 

This majestic capital city sprawls on the coast of Oman, full of traditional Islamic architecture that simmers in the warm sun. Top sites to visit include:   

the Grand Mosque,   

Bait al Zubair Museum,   

Al Alam Palace,   

the old harbour and its graffiti dating back to the 16th century.  

Temperatures are typically a relaxing 20-25C throughout December and January. Flights are typically around £1,100 per person in December (yikes!) and only £170 in January.   

Cheap-ish hotels are around £40-£60 per night, but you can always check out the other options we mentioned above for a more authentic and cost-effective experience.  

Top tips: Pack light cotton clothing and headscarves, drink alcohol discreetly (Oman is a Muslim country), and always remember to haggle! 

Doha, Qatar 

Qatar is now officially the richest country in the world, and an incredible 14% of its inhabitants are certified millionaires. The wealth is clearly visible in the country’s capital Doha, where the majority of the population reside. Shopping malls are everywhere, some so large that they include cinemas, swimming pools and even theme parks on the premises. 

The hotels are equally awesome, and the culinary scene is unbelievable. Alain Ducasse, the legendary French chef, owns IDAM on the fifth floor of the Museum of Islamic Art (which is something else you should absolutely check out).  

Itching to book plane tickets already? If so, you’re in for a treat with the best airline in the world, Qatar Airlines. Prices are quite variable; the best for December are about £220, which later drop to the £170-mark by the middle of January. 

Pafos, Republic of Cyprus 

Last year, Pafos reigned as the 2017 European Capital of Culture. And a long time before that, Pafos also used to reign as the capital of Cyprus. As such it is brimming with beautiful historical buildings as well as temples to Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love who is said to have made the island her home.  

And speaking of sea foam – Pafos lies on the coast of Cyprus, and boasts some of the most idyllic beaches of the Mediterranean. Temperatures vary between a mild 15C to a warm 23C between December and January, so remember your sun cream. 

Flights are very reasonably priced even around Christmas at £110 per person, later dropping to an incredible £21 once the New Year is well under way.  

Casablanca, Morocco 

Even though everybody knows the name Casablanca from the famous Bogart and Bergman movie, this is a surprisingly neglected city by UK and US tourists. Casa, as the locals call it, is modern and fun, most of the buildings relatively young due to a massive earthquake that destroyed most of the city in 1755.  

Restaurants, nightclubs and surfing are a couple of great ways to fill your time here, as well as getting your culture hit visiting the second-largest mosque in the world or haggling in the old medina.  

Casa generally maintains a comfortable average of 20C throughout December and January.  

When booking flights to Casa, we suggest that you prepare to be flexible. Flying direct is often significantly more expensive, but if you’re willing to include a stop or two the price can easily drop hundreds of pounds. During the later days of December, prices start from around £450; wait two weeks, and that will have decreased to under £90.  

Tenerife, Canary Islands 

Tenerife, a staple of many Brits’ summers, is a holiday maker’s dream. Glorious golden beaches, rugged mountains and lush forests, stunning cities and shops galore: there is truly something for everyone. And best of all, the island’s reliance on tourism means that flights are fast and cheap to get you to your sunshine as pain-free as possible. 

Plane tickets for December are likely to set you back no more than £150, while January sees fabulous prices of under £30 across the board. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort or more affordable accommodation, you’ll be able to enjoy it in blissful 18-23C weather. 

Have you managed to escape the cold this winter? Tell us all about it in the comments section below. 

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[ask-the-phan-site]

The Immoral Sisterhood of Greed

>It’s time.

Time to spread some holiday cheer for the sake of ice skating.

And for the sake of those three girls.

Relax, Queen. We’ve got this.

Queen: R- Right.

>Mona becomes our van and we take off after Alex, Lutz, and Loop Nishigori.

>The Ice Castle. The rehearsal for the Snow King was in progress.

Alright everyone, from the top! Yosuke, you’re up!

I’ve gotta hand it to you, Yuuko san, you’re one heck of a make up artist. Especially with this costume Kanji made, I almost look like the real thing.

I... I just got the idea from the anime.

The anime was a bit in accurate and had a few references from Hans Christian Anderson’s other works. But, it did have some good reviews. I think you did an excellent job, Kanji kun.

Kanji: (blushing a bit) Th- Thanks...

Yosuke: Alright. Here goes...

>Yosuke takes the guitar and plays the opening song in the tune of “The Apology Song”.

This here is a tale, a tale from long ago There are some who say it's true, and some who say not so But when this story's over, after what you've heard and seen You'll know more than you ever knew and will truely belive

This is the Snow King This is the Snow King Hear my song, you know I sing the truth Through all the dark and light You will see it this Christmas night

And if you can believe and if you can believe Love will set you free And if you can believe and if you can believe Love will set you free

Why do I get a feeling that we’re being watched?

Yeah, I have the same feeling.

>They looked around and found out who it was.

Here they are!

>It was Axel, Lutz, and Loop. They were recording the rehearsal.

Axel: Ha! Got it!

Lutz: We’ll call it, the Making of the Snow King.

Loop: Staring Yuuri Katsuki, Victor Nikiforov, and Yurio Plisetsky.

You mean the Intrusion of the Snow King!

I’m going to have to agree with Yuuri. Didn’t your mother said you can’t record the rehearsal?

Yuuko: I did. I thought I told you that you can’t be here today because your recording will disrupt things!

Axel: Aww come on, Mom. Please~.

They just don’t know when to quit, do they?

Lutz: You bet ya!

Even if you just got a calling card this morning?

Loop: That’s because we’re not like all those idiots they went after previously.

?????: Yeah, you’re worse.

Axel, Lutz, and Loop: !

They’re here!

Yu: Nanako!

Nanako: Right!

>Nanako left the place. Then, a red wave passed over them, Yuuri, Victor, Yurio, and Yuuko disappeared leaving only the Investigation Team and the Nishigori Triplets. When it was over, they were now in what looked like luxurious skating rink surrounded what looked like a Japanese themed casino.

Wow! It’s gotten more shiny since we were last here.

Can we just focus on why we’re here? ... And for those of you wondering why we’re suddenly in our school uniforms, that’s because of the Metaverse. Because we were always fighting Shadows in them, we’ve become cognitive of how it feels natural to us.

?????: Can we continue, please?

Yosuke: Go right ahead.

?????: The holidays are for giving, not taking.

???: You squandered your youth taking advantage of a loving couple who only wish for a quiet Christmas together.

????: It is unforgivable at your age or any other age.

???????: Taking advantage of the Christmas season for your own gain is something we just can’t overlook.

?????: Like Santa Clause, we know who is naughty and who is nice.

>We skate out of the shadows to reveal ourselves.

Joker: Target: Axel, Lutz, and Loop Nishigori.

Girls your age shouldn’t be this cynical. It’s unhealthy.

We know it seems wrong to most people right now, but you three need to learn a valuable lesson.

The injustice you have imposed upon these masters of the ice must come to an end here now.

And that is why we have come here thought. To change your darkened hearts.

Queen: It just saddens me to see that such dark ways can come to someone so young. But that will soon change.

We will take the distortion that has threatened the beauty of the season.

Oracle: And purify the technology you abuse.

Mona: You think your cuteness will save you? It won’t.

Joker: Now, we will...

Phantom Thieves: Take your heart!

That was... Long.

There’s nine of them and they each have a line of their own they wish to add.

That’s a lot to say.

Mona: We try.

>The three girls just stare at us until they finally said...

Axel: Is that it? We could have done a better job.

Lutz: But extra points for having Risette and Yuuri’s cousin and their friends in on this.

Loop: Either way, you’re wasting your time. You can’t hurt three little girls.

Joker: We won’t. We’re taking your Treasure which won’t hurt that much. Besides, Yuuri and Victor are the ones getting the most hurt because you won’t leave their privet lives be.

Axel: That’s because we’re smarter than any dumb ass adult.

Lutz: We know more than they could ever know.

Loop: And that includes you.

Umm, do they sound a little... different?

Teddie: No kidding, Yuki chan. They sound a little off, like... Like a person’s Shadow... AHH! Does that mean their Shadows are here?

Axel, Lutz, and Loop: So you know now.

>A dark aura comes from the triplets as their eyes turn golden.

Shadow Axel, Shadow Lutz, and Shadow Loop: We are the great weavers of man’s life. You will not stand in our way.

Panther: You may weave man’s life, they doesn’t mean you can twist it for your own gain. We can’t let you do this to Yuuri and Victor!

Shadow Axel, Shadow Lutz, and Shadow Loop: We are merely trying to make them more loved by the world. But if you insist in stopping us, then there is only one thing to do: You. All. Must. Die.

>With that said, they become engulfed in darkness and assume their true form.

Teddie: AHH! They’ve changed into three scary beautiful goddesses!

Yosuke: Could not freak out right now!?

Oracle: Lucky for you, I’m here.

Rise: And I’m here to help. Let’s do this. Persona!

Oracle: Persona!

>Both Personas scan the Moirae Sisters.

Oracle: Got it! Clotho is weak to Ice and Nuclear Skills.

Rise: Lachesis is weak to Electricity.

Oracle: And Atropos is weak to Fire.

Queen: Right. Me, Fox, Chie, and Teddie will take Clotho.

Skull: Leave Lachesis to me, Yu, and Kanji.

Joker: That just leave Atropos with me, Panther, and Yukiko.

Yosuke: Guess the rest of us will make sure they don’t try to escape.

Mona: Relax, Phones, us Wind guys gotta stick together.

Yosuke: Phones?

Noir: Consider it your code name for now.

Naoto: Code names? Guess we never thought of that.

Crow: It’s a common mistake anyone can make.

>Noir glares.

Crow: It is!

Yosuke: He’s got a point.

Joker: Alright, everyone, let’s do this.

Yu: Right. We’re with you all the way.

Queen, Fox, Chie, and Teddie (Team A): Persona!

Skull, Yu, and Kanji (Team B): Persona!

Joker, Panther, and Yukiko (Team C): Persona!

>And so, we fight.

>With Team A.

>Clotho uses Makajamaon. Thankfully, it missed them all.

Queen: That was close. Normally, Clotho doesn’t have Psychic abilities, but I don’t want to take any chances. Let’s do this, Johanna!

>Queen’s Persona uses Freidyne, Chie’s Persona uses Bufu, and Fox’s and Teddie’s Personas use Bufudyne. It was enough to put her down.

Queen: She’s in disarray!

>The attack was not enough.

Clotho: I’m not so easily taken down! Let’s see you handle this!

>Clotho uses Makajama on Fox. It was effective.

Fox: Huh? What was I doing?

Queen: Damn! And we forgot to get Relax Capsules.

Teddie: Fear not, my queen, the remarkable Sir Teddie to the rescue! Go, Kamui-Moshiri!

>Teddie’s Persona uses Amrita Shower which restores Fox.

Fox: Thank you. But I’m afraid of that happening again. Perhaps I should have Goemon boost our speed.

Chie: I can do better than that. Haraedo-no-Okami!

>Chie’s Persona uses Dragon Hustle which makes them stronger and faster.

Fox: That’s actually impressive.

Chie: Thanks.

Queen: Here, you might need this.

>Queen gives Chie a Nuclear Magatama.

Queen: It should even out the Nuclear factor and your Ice abilities could use a bit more refining.

Chie: I’m not sure if that was offensive or helpful, but thanks.

Queen: Just treat me to some Pirozhki and we’ll call it even.

Chie: I’ll do you one better. I’ll have Yosuke treat us both to Katsudon as well.

Queen: Deal.

Yosuke: (irritated) I heard that!

>Queen’s Persona uses Atomic Flare, Chie uses the item, and Fox and Teddie do what they did the first time. Clotho is down once again.

Queen: Now, let’s go!

>Clotho was on the ground defeated.

Fox: That’s one down and only two to go.

>With Team B.

>Lachesis uses Mabufula. Skull and Yu got moderate damage, but Kanji was frozen solid.

Skull: Here!

>Skull uses a Hand Warmalizer to thaw out Kanji.

Kanji: Whoa! That was cold! But thanks for saving my bacon.

Skull: Let’s just get this one done and we’ll be even.

>Team B’s Personas all use Ziodyne on Lachesis which gets her down.

Kanji: I live for this part!

>Lachesis managed to survive the attack.

Lachesis: I think it’s time to open my present early.

>Lachesis takes out a Bead and uses it on herself. Then uses Elce Wall.

Skull: That can’t be good.

Kanji: Relax. We can just break that resistance. Show ‘em, Takeji Zaiten!

>Kanji’s Persona uses Elec Break. Unfortunately, it missed.

Kanji: Damn!

Skull: Let me try. Go for it, Captain Kidd!

>Skull’s Persona also uses Elec Break. It also missed.

What the eff!? Why didn’t it work!?

Oracle: It must be part of their shared cognition. They believe their power is great.

Yu: Not if I can help it. Rise, a little boost please.

Rise: Coming right up, Senpai. Help them, Kouzeon!

Oracle: Don’t leave me out of this. Show her up, Necronomicon!

>Both Oracle’s and Rise’s Personas let off some wave that boosted our stats. With their combine powers, the boost made them more stronger

Yu: That should do it, thanks. Now, go, Izanagi-no-Okami!

>Yu’s Persona uses Dekunda which lowers Lachesis stats.

Lachesis: And what will that do?

Yu: This. Kanji!

Kanji: Alright! Pay attention, Skull, this is how a man does it.

>Kanji’s Persona uses The Man’s Way. It knocks Lachesis down.

Skull: Way to go, Kanji! Now let’s tear ‘em apart!

>Lachesis was now down for sure.

Yu: That should take care of things. Now let’s hope Team C can take care of the rest.

>With Team C.

Atropos: Take this!

>Atropos uses Mazionga. I was knocked down and Yukiko was shocked.

Panther: Dance, Carmen!

>Panther’s Persona uses Dormina which puts Atropos to sleep. I managed to get back up. I use a Discharge Crystal to help Yukiko.

Yukiko: Thank you. Now let’s deal with this.

>Mine and Panther’s Personas use Agidyne and Yukiko’s Persona uses Burning Petals. But somehow, Atropos used Dodge Fire while she slept.

Panther: Well, if that doesn’t work, we could try this.

>Panther takes her whip. Lucky for us, she was using a Burn Whip and landed a Technical Hit along with a Burn effect.

Joker: Now for this.

>I use a Cyclone Magatama. It was a Technical Hit also.

Atropos: OW! Why you!

>Atropos uses Concentrate.

Oracle: Careful, she’s up to something. She might either heal her self or protect herself from your fire.

Joker: Then we’ll just have to get stronger. Boost us up, Orpheus Picaro!

>My Persona uses Matarukaja and makes us stronger.

Yukiko: I think that should do it. Panther, let’s really get into this. You ready?

Panther: Count on it.

Yukiko: Let’s help Carmen out, Sumeo-Okami!

>Panther’s Persona uses Blazing Hell as Yukiko’s Persona combines it with her Burning Petals to create what they called Blazing Petals. My Persona also adds Agidyne to it. Atropos was down.

Yukiko: Our enemy is down! We must strike!

Panther: This is our chance!

Joker: That’s all three of them.

>We all gather around the Moirae.

Mona: Now let’s take the Treasure!

?????: You think so?

Everyone: !

>Suddenly, a dark man emerges from the shadows and throws what we can only describe as black sand. Because of this, we immediately recognize him as the Boogieman, Pitch Black. Somehow, the black sand completely heal the Moirae.

Joker: No! What did you do?

>He vanishes as the Moirae prepare to attack.

Moirae: Feel our power!

>The Moirae use Megidolaon. It was super effective on the others. Somehow, Yu’s Persona spared me and him with Angelic Grace.

Yu: Damn. We were so close.

Joker: I know. And I was hoping I wouldn’t have to use it, but now we don’t have a choice. I have to summon it.

>I’m hesitant, but I change Personas. Already, I can feel a dark and foreboding aura coming from it.

Joker: Bring forth the punishment... Krampus!

Moirae: (scream) That’s-

Krampus: (unearthly howl)

>Krampus uses Evil Smile which puts them in total fear that they couldn’t move. Then, Krampus used Ghastly Wail which most definitely defeated the Moirae as they resumed their human forms. However, Krampus was still there and he was still going to attack.

Joker: Damn! This is what North warned me about. Something tells me Pitch planned for this to happen.

>As if on cue, Pitch reappeared.

Pitch: That’s correct, little thief. But think of this way, now everyone will most likely believe in the Phantom Thieves.

Yu: No. They will fear the Phantom Thieves. Just like last time when Shido had Okumura die from a mental shutdown. That will not happen again.

Pitch: And what will you do about it? Your Power of Truth won’t save you this time. And neither will your Seven Deadly Sins.

>I knew he was a bit right... Unless.

Joker: Maybe, if they were apart. But together...

Yu: They stronger than anything there is. Akira.

>I nod.

Joker: Stanael!

Yu: Izanagi-no-Okami, show them the power that arises when two with the Wild Card combine their strengths!

>That did it. Our combined attacked stopped Krampus good as he is forced back into a mask.

Joker: Anything else to say, Pitch?

Pitch: Only this: My work here is done.

>With that, Pitch vanished. Everyone managed to get up again as a light come from the three girls.

Mona: Finally, the Treasure.

>I take the Treasure. It was a picture.

Queen: It’s a picture of the girls’ parents and Yuuri when they were kids.

Axel: It was a birthday present. Are you seriously going to take it?

Queen: If this is the only way you will leave Yuuri and Victor be for the holidays, then yes.

Axel: ... Alright. We’ll leave them be. They will have a nice quite Christmas after the performance. We promise.

>With that, the three girls return to their true selves.

Yosuke: Wow. I saw that skill. I’ve seen a lot of Fusion Moves, but that one take the cake. What do you call it?

Joker and Yu: The Bullets of Truth.

Skull: Sweat! Talk about a Christmas miracle!

>With the Treasure in our possession, we leave as the Palace crumbles away.

>Later that day, back in the real world, we and the Investigation Team got back to find the Nishigori triplets on their knees in tears begging Yuuri and Victor for forgiveness.

Alex, Lutz, and Loop: We’re sorry! We promise we won’t record you during the holidays!

Yuuri: Oh, okay, but you really don’t have to go all out.

Victor: Maybe the Phantom Thieves actually kept their word and took their hearts.

WHAT!? I can’t believe it! How dare they take my daughters’ hearts! Wait till I get my hands on them, I’m gonna give them a piece of my mind!

(laughs a bit)

Takeshi: What are you laughing about?

>Ann elbows Ryuji a bit.

Sorry. Just remembering something funny. Guess this was a bad time, huh?

Yuuko: You should go for today. The last rehearsal is tomorrow.

>Back at Yu-topia, we decided to let Yuuri and Victor now.

Yuuri: You’re the WHAT!?

Shh! You want the whole world to know?

Yuuri: Sorry.

Victor: Hard to believe that you’re the Phantom Thieves. Guess Nanoko’s request came though.

Yosuke: (surprised) You knew?

>Suddenly, Nanako came out of hiding.

I... told Victor when I couldn’t keep it a secret anymore.

Victor: Think of it this way, at least she didn’t say anything to her father who is a police detective.

That’s something, I guess. You’re not going to tell on us, are you?

Victor: Why should I? I actually believe that you’re doing good in the world.

Yuuri: Same here. You guys truly are the Phantom Thieves of Justice. You did a lot for us. You saved Japan from getting a horrible Prime Minister.

...

Yu: That may have gone a bit too far.

Yuuri: Sorry... What did I say?

Akechi: ... It doesn’t matter now. It’s almost Christmas. Time for us to feel joy and happiness. And to look forward to the New Year.

He’s right. We did our job and Boss and Sae san are coming over tomorrow for the show. Let’s just enjoy this moment.

That’s true.

>Suddenly, Dojima comes up with a frown.

Bad news, everyone.

Naoto: What is it, Dojima san?

Dojima: You know those three girls whose parents own the Ice Castle. They’re suppose to play the three roses who help Yuuri’s character escape the Spring Wizard. They had a change of heart and now they’re unable to perform.

I’m sorry about that.

Dojima: That’s alight. But Mr. and Mrs. Nishigori are going to have a hard time finding replacements. The other skaters that go to the Ice Castle are spending the holidays else where and won’t be here in time. I just hope they find them soon.

>Dojima left. Makoto thought for a moment until she had an idea.

Makoto: We should do it. Fill in for the girls.

Ryuji: You want us to skate?

Makoto: Just the three of us who can skate on ice. We already took from the girls, the least we can do is repay them. A sort of Christmas gift to them. The gift of resting for a while.

I think that’s a good idea. I gladly volunteer.

Kanji: You can skate, Yusuke kun?

Yusuke: Pretty much. During one of the rare breaks my former sensei gave out, I would sometimes go to the ice rink and skate. Though I usually see ice skating as a hobby since art is already my passion.

Makoto: That’s good. Thank you, Yusuke.

Ann: I guess I’ll go along too. I’m a really good skater. Whenever my parents took me to New York in winter, they would take me ice skating at Rockefeller Center.

Makoto: That just leaves one more.

What about you, Akira?

Akira: I’ve skated a little. It’s not very good, but it’s decent enough to skate a fair distance.

Yuuri: That’s good. The roses don’t have to skate much and the lines are easily memorized. I’ll talk to Yuuko and see what she can do.

Makoto: Thank you, Yuuri. We won’t disappoint you.

Victor: I have a feeling that you won’t.

Nanako: Yay! Let’s go talk to her.

>And so, we all go back to the Ice Castle to ask the owners if we could fill in for their daughters.

>Not too far from where we just were, Pitch and another were watching from the shadows.

Pitch: You see? Doesn’t that make you fearful that your plan will fail.

???: Why should it? They’re clearly a bunch of SEES wannabes. But then again, the Phantom Thieves don’t seem like the type to kid around.

Pitch: Yes. And I’ve noticed recently that two of them are sharing dreams with two people they hardly know. And one of them is related to the one you’re dealing with for your plan.

???: Then I’ll have to handle it. But first, I should test just how serious they are. What about you?

Pitch: Like I said, my work here is done. What happens now is your choice.

>With that, Pitch departs and the other person emerges from the shadows.

Now then, let’s see just what you’re made of, Phantom Thieves.

>Another successful heist.