#more ornament on things tbh

[shoutsthedustflake]

The big downtown Target on State Street in Chicago has all these tiny Louis Sullivan details if you know where to look

[cromerholt]

finally made a real ref sheet for Her. my funky lizard lady.

[capquinn]

thinking about Quinn and family doing a holiday movie night… matching pjs, Christmas movie the kids picked out, holiday treats. How excited the babies are for it and lowkey the parents too. Truly was one of my favorite memories as a kid and still kind of now at 22 tbh LOL and my mom just told me the other day it’s one of her favorite things we do every year for Christmas even though we’re all older

The living room is a picture-perfect holiday haven. The Christmas tree stands tall in the corner, its soft white lights twinkling slowly, casting a warm glow over the room. The ornaments glimmer softly, a mix of hand-me-downs, mismatched baubles, and Bug’s latest preschool crafts. Outside, frost clings to the windows, the kind of biting cold that makes you grateful for the cosy warmth inside.

Every Friday night is movie night but on the first Friday of December, it's the official kickoff of the family’s Christmas movie tradition — something that began long before the kids, back when it was just you and Quinn curled up on the couch together, sharing a bowl of popcorn and a blanket as the glow of twinkling lights painted the walls. It had been your little ritual, a moment of calm in the whirlwind of life, gearing up for the busy holiday season.

And then Bug came along, turning your quiet little ritual into something bigger, brighter. Suddenly, there were tiny hands tugging at blankets, excited chatter about which Christmas movie was “the best ever,” and bowls of gummy bears added to the lineup of holiday treats. It wasn’t just about the two of you anymore — it was about her wonder, her laughter, her joy becoming the heart of the tradition.

Now, Bug is old enough to pick the movies, Cub is here for his very first holiday season, and it feels even more magical this year. The kind of magic that makes the tradition feel brand new, like it’s grown right along with your family. What started as a small ritual between you and Quinn has blossomed into something so much bigger. Something that belongs to all of you, something that will grow with them, too.

Bug has been talking about this all week, her excitement bubbling over like a pot about to boil. After days of careful deliberation — during which Arthur Christmas had been a close contender — she’d finally settled on The Grinch, her nearly four-year-old self treating the responsibility of picking the perfect holiday movie with the gravity of a major life decision. Quinn, ever the doting dad, had already promised they’d watch her second choice next Friday, but for tonight, the Grinch’s antics reigned supreme.

“Daddy, hurry!” Bug calls from the couch, her voice high-pitched with impatience as she sprawls across the cushions. Her little legs, clad in Christmas tartan pyjamas, kick aimlessly in the air, her feet landing every so often on the spot where Quinn will inevitably sit.

“I’m coming, Bug,” Quinn calls back from the kitchen, his tone laced with mock exasperation.

He reappears moments later, balancing a tray stacked with steaming mugs of hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and marshmallows, a bowl of popcorn, Christmas cookies, and a small dish of Bug’s favourite red-and-green gummy bears. He’s wearing the matching pyjamas you picked out, a reluctant but ultimately endearing participant in your insistence that everyone match for the occasion. The flannel tartan pants, patterned in red and green, and the long-sleeved button-up shirt feel almost comically festive, but he wears them anyway, his protest never extending beyond a half-hearted sigh when you first handed them to him.

Bug’s face lights up at the sight of the snacks.

“That one’s mine!” she declares, pointing eagerly at the mug with the mountain of whipped cream.

“Of course it is,” Quinn replies, his tone warm and teasing as he sets the tray on the coffee table. He ruffles her hair playfully before finally sinking onto the couch beside you with a contented sigh.

Cubby, who had been nestled in your arms, immediately perks up at the sight of his dad. His little hands grab at the air, making soft, insistent noises until you lean forward and let him scramble across to Quinn. The eight-month-old settles happily against his chest, chubby cheeks squished against Quinn’s shoulder, one tiny hand clutching at the fabric of his dad’s shirt.

“Of course, straight to dad,” you murmur softly, your smile widening at the sight of Cub settling so perfectly against Quinn’s chest.

Quinn adjusts Cub carefully into a more comfortable position, his hand resting protectively on his tiny back as he presses a gentle kiss to his head.

“Well, can you blame him?” he teases, glancing at you with a playful glint in his eye. “I mean, look at me — prime cuddle material.”

“Okay, big guy,” you tease, rolling your eyes with a soft laugh as you lean into him, your head settling naturally on his free shoulder. Your hand drifts to Cub’s back, resting there gently, your fingers tracing lazy patterns over the soft fabric of his Christmas pyjamas.

Quinn adjusts instinctively, shifting slightly to tuck you closer against his side. His arm tightens around your shoulders, his hand curling lightly against your upper arm, fingers tracing soft, absent minded circles into your skin and you feel the warmth of his body, solid and steady, enveloping you in that quiet, unspoken comfort that only he can give.

Bug, sprawled at the other end of the sofa, suddenly starts to wiggle her way back toward the center of the action. She’s determined, her little feet finding their way onto Quinn’s lap as she nestles into the corner with all the authority of a tiny queen reclaiming her throne.

“Can we start the movie now?” she asks, her voice high-pitched with impatience but brimming with pure, uncontainable excitement.

Quinn glances down at her feet, then back at you with an exaggerated sigh. “Guess I’m a human footrest now,” he quips, his tone light and teasing, though the fondness in his eyes gives him away.

“You’re just so popular tonight,” you tease softly, your voice full of affection as you nuzzle closer against him, brushing your nose lightly against his neck. It’s playful, warm, the kind of moment that draws a quiet smile from him. He tilts his head against yours, letting the weight of it linger in the soft space between you.

Bug wiggles her toes pointedly against Quinn’s leg, her feet still sprawled across his lap. “Daddy, the movie,” she prompts, her voice a mix of impatience and innocence, entirely oblivious to the tender moment unfolding just above her.

Quinn huffs a soft laugh, shifting slightly to look at her, his hand giving her ankle an affectionate squeeze. “Alright, alright, hold your horses,” he says, his tone teasing but full of love. “You’ve been waiting all week for this, haven’t you?”

Bug’s grin is wide and triumphant.

“Yes!” she exclaims, leaning back dramatically as if she’s been terribly wronged by the wait.

“Then I guess we’d better get started,” you say, laughing quietly as you reach for the remote.

Bug's entire body leans forward as though that might make the movie start faster, her little fingers clutching the small bowl of gummy bears like a lifeline, her wide eyes glued to the screen as the opening credits roll.

“He’s so grumpy!” she giggles loudly as the Grinch makes his first appearance on screen, her hands clasped together like she’s witnessing the most thrilling moment of her life. She looks over at you, then Quinn, as though seeking confirmation. “Is he always like this?"

Quinn chuckles, adjusting Cub slightly in his arms as the baby nestles deeper against his chest. “Yeah, Bug. That’s kind of his thing,” he says with a grin, his voice warm and amused.

Bug doesn’t respond immediately, her wide eyes glued to the screen as though the Grinch himself might pop out of it. The bowl of gummy bears rests tightly in her grasp, her legs tucked underneath her. The twinkling lights of the Christmas tree reflect in her curls, making her seem even more alight with energy.

And then, with all the flair of a dramatic revelation, she gasps. “But why does he hate Christmas?” she demands, sitting up just enough to point emphatically at the screen. “Did someone take his presents? Did his tree break? Did—”

“Bug,” you interrupt softly, a laugh escaping as you reach over to rake your fingers gently through her unruly curls, smoothing them back from her face. “Just watch the movie, sweetheart. You’ll see.”

She huffs, reluctantly sinking back against the sofa, her head finding its new resting spot in Quinn’s lap, her feet tucked up beneath her as her wide eyes stay glued to the screen. But her little mind is clearly still at work.

“He’s just so mad, though,” she mutters under her breath, her tone brimming with quiet exasperation, as though trying to reason through the Grinch’s grievances herself.

Quinn glances down at her, his free hand absently brushing along her arm. He casts you a look — one that’s equal parts amused and adoring, the kind of look that says, can you believe her? but also, I love her so much it’s ridiculous.

“She’s really into this,” he murmurs, his voice low so as not to disturb her moment of contemplation.

“She’s been waiting all week for it,” you remind him just as quietly, your fingers still threading gently through her hair. “I mean, who can blame her? It’s the first Christmas movie of the season.”

Bug wiggles slightly, making herself more comfortable as she pipes up again, unable to help herself.

“I think maybe he needs a hug,” she declares solemnly, her little voice so sincere it tugs at your heart.

Quinn bites back a grin, looking down at her. “You think that’s it?” he asks, humouring her, his voice warm and indulgent.

“Yeah,” Bug nods firmly, her eyes back on the screen. “A hug and some gummy bears. That makes me happy.”

Her words spark a quiet laugh from you, and Quinn shakes his head fondly.

“She’s got it all figured out,” he says softly, leaning back into the couch, his hand resuming its gentle patterns along Cub’s back.

Meanwhile, Cub doesn’t last long, and as the Grinch starts hatching his plans to steal Christmas, he is completely out, his little body molded perfectly against Quinn’s chest. His tiny hands clutch at his daddy's shirt with a grip so sure it tugs at your heart, as though even in sleep, he knows this is the safest place in the world. His chubby cheeks are squished against the soft fabric, his face utterly peaceful, serene in the way only a baby can be. His soft, rhythmic breathing the only sound competing with Bug’s constant chatter.

“Why is he taking their stockings? He can’t do that,” Bug whispers urgently, her big eyes darting between you and Quinn.

“Because he doesn’t like Christmas, remember?” Quinn replies, his voice low and patient, his hand lightly resting on her back now. “But maybe he’ll change his mind.”

And by the time the Grinch’s heart grows three sizes, Bug’s eyelids are drooping, though she fights to stay awake, her little fingers fiddling with the hem of her shirt.

“I knew he’d like Christmas,” she mumbles sleepily, her voice slurring just a little.

Quinn glances down at her, his eyes soft, his free hand brushing over her curls once before settling her head more comfortably against his lap. “Told you,” he murmurs, his voice low and fond.

You smile, leaning into his side, your fingers still raking through Bug’s hair.

“Merry Christmas, Hughes,” you whisper softly, and Quinn turns his head to press a kiss to your temple, the kind of moment that lingers, warm and unhurried.

“Merry Christmas,” he echoes quietly, voice full of love.

[chanelnumbermine]

2024 f2 boys during christmas preparations | f2 grid picks x gn!reader

i’ve been feeling really tired during those last few days and thought that i could use some help. who better than my favourite drivers! lay back and enjoy this small christmas gift! happy holidays, cuties!! <3

pairings: ollie bearman x gn!reader, kimi antonelli x gn!reader, zane maloney x gn!reader, paul aron x gn!reader, pepe marti x gn!reader, luke browning x gn!reader, franco colapinto x gn!reader;

warning(s): cuteness overload!!

ollie bearman | prema —> haas f1

as we know, the boy is a menace in the kitchen

so he helps with the christmas tree!

shows off his strength by carrying the tree to your house

excited to see all the lights and ornaments, wants to make it really perfect since you're doing it together

teases you about your height so so much

will lift you just so you can put the star on top of the tree! so cute!

kimi antonelli | prema —> mercedes amg petronas

he's a little flustered with all of this

can't help with the food, the tree is already decorated, what is even left?!

the presents!!

kimi would be the ultimate perfectionist in terms of wrapping

and don't even try to convince him that he can use a gift bag

every single item will be neatly wrapped with a bow on top

"can i wrap you up next?"

zane maloney | rodin —> formula e

king of confusion

chances are the chritmas traditions in your countries are vastly different and it's normal to be puzzled

zane would blindly follow your lead and admire how you handle yourself with so many responsibilities

"woah, babe, exactly how many cakes have you baked? this is so good!"

cleans up after your cooking because he sees how exhausted you are

"you need to teach me how to make this so i can help you out better"

paul aron | hitech —> bwt alpine reserve driver

surprisingly useful!!

my man will try to show off his baking skills but will end up asking questions every two minutes to make sure he doesn’t mess anything up

and thank god he asked, because no paul, you can’t add protein powder to my christmas pudding!

very clingy and affectionate, something about holidays together makes his heart melt

brushing his fingers over yours and teasing because he knows you will get frustrated and can't act on your needs

grins when you pounce on his later

pepe marti | campos, red bull academy

type of overachiever boyfriend who will start planning everything november 1st

all the dishes, the decorations, dates... you can count on him to have everything ready

but he somehow forgot about one thing: gifts

emergency last minute shopping, filled with laughs and good food!

"baby this dress would look so pretty on you!" "pepe we already bought so much-" "who cares! let's buy you this dress and, omg, is this matching lingerie?"

very excited puppy!

luke browning | hitech —> f2

really happy to be of help with just about anything

the type of guy to yap about his family traditions, his mom's cooking

not to compare or shame you, he just really loves christmas and wants you to be a part of his world so much

"mom, how do you make these cookies? i want to make them for my darling this year"

overall, it is very sweet and caring during this time

bc he's already imagining your future together and how would your family home look during christmas omg

franco colapinto | mp —> williams racing

curious about anything and everything

"hey, hey, baby! how did you make this? it looks to pretty"

you're stuck with his for hours tbh

will try to help you and fail miserably, causing even more mess and more work

flour will end up on the floor and on your faces

absolutely shameless about it, looks at you with puppy dog eyes

"come on baby, you weren't paying attention to me and now i ruined it! it's not my fault"

will try to make it up with a kiss or two, or five

[shadowmaat]

Jedi Service Corps

The Legends-fueled propaganda of "bad students get sent to the Agricorp/Services" has always bothered me. First of all, forcing kids into a career not of their choosing isn't the best way to encourage them to perform well.

The Services in general seem to get a bad rap, and TBH it's kind of bizarre to assume that every kid who winds up being taken in by the Jedi wants to grow up to be a cop. LOL!

There is so much untapped potential being ignored, and even within the four pseudo-canon branches there's a lot to explore.

Agriculture. Farmers Without Borders. LOL! It isn't just about growing plants, it's about analyzing trends, understanding ecosystems, geology, climatology, politics, etc. There's mechanical engineering so you know how to fix the machines that do the hardest labor (often illegally, given corporate software locks and so forth). Probably a lot of fiddly stuff with plant genetics, too, given similar issues with seed corporations.

Being Jedi, I'm sure they're also aware of the need to include "ornamental" plants to help with the emotional welfare of hurting/devastated populations.

Education. This field must be fucking wild. Sure, you have your future creche masters and archivists, but I imagine there are those who do public outreach, too, and go to schools to teach kids about what the Jedi do beyond waving laser swords. There's probably also a need for teachers in isolated/rural areas to help with basic things like reading, writing, and maths. Ditto areas devastated by wars and natural disasters, where kids need a safe distraction from trauma. I bet Educorp and Agricorp team up more often than people might think.

There's also the sheer variety of topics. Even something basic like history will have a wide net. Galactic history, region-specific, planetary, etc. And then there's the arts. Music, singing, dance, physical media, holo media, theatre, and so much more. There will be differences between species, understanding what they need to know, how they learn best, and what their aging process is like. Teachers to cover the full range of mortal maturity, from teaching toddlers to old-timers. And don't get me started on teaching "forbidden" topics in repressive communities.

Medical. LOL. Every. Single. Species. And often subtypes between them. So many specialists needed. And again, you probably have a number that specialize in helping in disaster areas. Hello, Educorp, let's help teach these people how to best care for themselves. Maybe Agricorp can help with showing folks how to purify their air and water. There must be SO many diseases, some of which have inoculations and so that don't. And again, figuring ways to smuggle medicine and supplies to those who need it despite the extortionist rates corporations charge. Repairing faulty equipment, finding work-arounds when the parts aren't there. Triage. Using the Force to help heal is all well and good, but sometimes they still have to get hands-on.

Even with non-emergency stuff, I imagine they're still kept busy. The idea of a Jedi "country doctor" settled in some remote area sounds delightful. Communities that get "lost" in the shuffle or otherwise overlooked. Veterinary medicine as a sub-specialty.

Jedi having a special "knack" for determining what's wrong with someone, finding early warning signs before it's too late, etc. Comforting the dying. Comforting the survivors. ALL the mental health stuff and neurodivergence.

Exploration. Jedi Starfleet. LOL! It isn't all about discovering new worlds, though. Sometimes it's rediscovering planets and cultures that have been forgotten. Charting new hyperlane routes and hoping the end doesn't pop you out in the middle of a star.

I betcha you could fold so many things into this one. Botany. Archaeology. Xenoanthropology. Medicine, of course, since new worlds/people means new poisons, venoms, and diseases. New or ancient languages? It'd help to have someone around who could work on translating. Diplomats to help you talk to people. Geologists. Zoologists. A bit of everything.

Sure, there'd be room for solo missions, but I imagine there'd be bigger ships that they'd launch from. A place to come back to so the brains can pore over everything you brought back and see what they can determine from it. And big ships (or any ships really) means pilots, engineers, general crew, logistics, and all those fun things.

Anyway, I can see plenty of room for additional corps, too, but of the ones that get mentioned in Legends there's still a huge playing field.

[wheeboo]

holidaze | boo seungkwan

SYNOPSIS. in which you take your boyfriend on a holidate down the city. PAIRING. boo seungkwan x gn!reader GENRE. fluff, established relationship WARNINGS. kissing!! n just me being very whipped for him tbh :') WORD COUNT. 1.1k

notes: these r actually pics on our date guys. i took these pics of him <3 he did this for me. anyways i def didn't write this at 4am. happy holidays everyone! why r these actually the most boyfie pics ever i'm crying sobbing dying

There's nothing more better than venturing down the city at night with the spirit of the holidays filling the air. Festive lights are hung on streetlights which cast enchanting glows on the sidewalks and reflect off the wet and icy roads. Christmas trees are scattered throughout the city, standing tall and decorated with a dazzling array of ornaments, tinsel, and twinkling lights.

There's also nothing better than spoiling your boyfriend to a little date. Seungkwan had insisted that there wasn't any need for you to pay for everything, but tonight, you were all too determined to show just how much you appreciate him, even if it means arguing who would pay for the bill at the restaurant you chose or who would buy the matching stuffed animals you spotted in a store and couldn't resist buying.

Seungkwan has done nothing but warm your heart than any gift ever could. He's already a gift to your life, and tonight is your way of reciprocating just that𑁋to make sure he feels just as cherished as he's made you feel every day, simply because he deserves it, even if he doesn't think so himself.

"Do you think they'd like it? I'm scared I got the bad scents." Seungkwan fiddles with the paper bag of scented candles in his hand, his opposite arm linked around yours as you both continue your stroll down the glittering streets.

"My parents will love it. You don't have to worry about a thing," You reassure him with a gentle smile, giving his upper arm a small squeeze. "And even if they don't, it's the thought that counts, right?"

Seungkwan grins back, the worry lines on his forehead smoothing out. The city lights seem to reflect in his eyes like twinkling stars. "You're right. I just want them to like me, you know?"

"They already love you, trust me," You assure confidently. "Just be yourself, and they'll see how amazing you are."

Seungkwan could only shyly cower his head down to your words, the cold air nipping at his cheek that he attempts to hide away. You already know he has every right to be nervous meeting your parents for the first time tomorrow, but you also know that he'll win them over with his genuine and bubbly charm, just as he won you over from the very beginning.

The two of you trail up to a set of rails overlooking the sidewalk below and the looming buildings surrounding the area. There's some distant holiday music that you could hear from the nearby stores. Seungkwan leans against the rail, releasing a breath that creates a small mist in the chilly air, a thoughtful expression travelling across his face.

Smiling to yourself, you take out your phone and snap a few candid photos of him against the backdrop of the city lights.

"Look back at me," You call, and Seungkwan turns to face you, a small smile to his face that you manage to capture before he playfully swats at your phone. "Hey, hey, wait𑁋just a few more... Okay, I'm done. See?"

He pouts when you swipe through the photos, showing him the blurry ones and the ones where he's mid-swat like a cat batting at a toy. "Oh my God, you make me look so goofy."

"But look at these ones." You show him the two where you perfectly captured him looking back at you and smiling naturally. "You gotta post these! You look so pretty."

Seungkwan just rolls his eyes and turns away to admire the lights of the city once more, biting back the shy grin to his face. As you tuck your phone away, you walk up to him, sliding an arm around his waist and leaning against the rail beside him.

And when you both turn your bodies to face each other, your eyes gazing into his, a smile crosses your face, and you can't help but to let a hand pinch his cheek, perhaps a bit more harder than intended. "You're so cute!”

"Ow," Seungkwan winces dramatically, his hand coming up to cup over yours on his face, but he doesn't take your hand away𑁋he doesn't want to𑁋and instead leans more into your touch.

You furrow a brow, noticing how cold his face feels against your hand, trailing a thumb lightly over his cheekbone. "You're freezing, Kwannie."

The warmth of your thumb seeping through the chill of Seungkwan's skin sends a shiver down his spine that had nothing to do with the winter breeze.

"Just a little," he mutters quietly. “But you feel warm."

His dark eyes are like pools of melted chocolate under the city glow. The playful banter has faded, replaced by a quiet intimacy that settled comfortably around you both. You knew you should pull away and head back to the warmth of your apartment, but something keeps you frozen to this moment𑁋to the way his gaze seems to pierce right through you and make you feel so seen.

Then a sudden urge, soft and insistent, sprouts within you.

Your smile blooms into a full, somewhat mischievous grin as you take your hand away from his face. Leaning in, you press a gentle kiss to his cheek, right on the spot your touch had warmed up moments ago. It was a soft, fleeting peck, barely more than a whisper of your lips against his skin, but it sends a jolt of electricity through you both.

Seungkwan can practically still feel the kiss lingering when you pull away, a blush creeping up his neck and painting his skin and ears with a rosy hue. The flustered look to his face was enough to send your heart into a giddy leap, and as you cup his face again, you feel it's grown significantly warmer under your touch.

"All better now," You whisper teasingly as you continue to hold Seungkwan's face gently between your hands. "Are you blushing?"

Seungkwan lets out a scoff, lightly shoving your hand away from his face. "No."

"You are."

"I'm not!"

"You are!”

"H-How can I not when you kiss me like that?"

His words make a chuckle leave your mouth, and you stretch your arms to wrap around his neck, closing the distance between your bodies. His own hands come to instinctively rest at your waist, breath hitching from the way your closeness sends another wave of warmth through him.

But before he can say anything, you lean in and press a quick kiss to his lips, catching him off-guard once more. When you pull back, there's a playful glint in your eyes, and Seungkwan is left speechless and dazed, his cheeks now an even deeper shade of red. His gaze flickers between your eyes and your lips, and he lets out a choked laugh, a mix of embarrassment and amusement.

"You're... you're really something else, you know that?" Seungkwan stammers, his fingers playing with the hem of your coat as he avoids your eyes bashfully.

You tilt your head slightly. "In a good way hopefully?"

He leans in and presses a kiss to the tip of your cold nose, his lips lingering for a moment. When he draws back, a few snowflakes land in his hair. "In the best way possible."

taglist (open) ʚɞ @enhazen @haowrld @icyminghao @slytherinshua @jeonride @lockburn-castle @vrnism @weird-bookworm @mhlsymlysn @ryuwonieebae @yeonjuns-redhair @wonwooz1 @woohaeyo @mark-geolli @caramyisabitchforsvtandbts @aaniag @wootify

[niteshade925]

April 11, Xi'an, China, Xi'an Museum/西安博物院 (Part 2):

First up, the star of the museum, Tang dynasty (618 - 907 AD) sancai/唐三彩 pottery figurine of a rider on a horse (三彩腾空马):

More Tang-era sancai pottery horse figurines:

This one is a sancai figurine of a camel......screaming? That's a reaction pic worthy face right there:

Another reaction pic worthy face.....this time on a small gold tiger figurine (the head looks more like a bat tbh lol):

Qin dynasty (221 - 207 BC) kneeling clay figurine. This is how people sat before raised seats and chairs became a thing, and this position is called jizuo/跽坐:

Bronze parts from a horse chariot (because the chariots were wooden, it decayed, leaving behind these bronze parts):

Left: bronze crossbow (called nu/弩) trigger mechanism and arrow heads (may be from Warring States period, 403 - 221 BC)

Right: Bronze swords and daggers. If I remember right, the ones on the bottom left are yue/钺 heads

Qin dynasty (221 - 207 BC) and Han dynasty (202 BC - 220 AD) wadang/瓦当, featuring various auspicious motifs and phrases. These are part of the roof edge in traditional Chinese architecture, as shown in the diagram on the right (wadang is on the bottom left in the diagram). Honestly I think at least some of these wadang designs can be used on mooncake moulds:

A golden loong dragon, very fitting for the Year of the Dragon 🐉:

A (giant) pottery brick decorated with two loong dragons:

A pottery lantern, I believe this is specifically made to be buried in a tomb

Green-glazed pottery dog from Han dynasty (202 BC - 220 AD). It's speculated that this actually depicts a songshi/松狮 dog, which was the breed that the chow chow was developed from. Note the wide head, small upright ears, sturdy protruding snout, stocky build, and the tail curved onto its back. This breed can still be found in China today:

Left: pottery female figurines, probably from Wei, Jin, Southern and Northern dynasties/魏晋南北朝 (220 - 589 AD), since this cross-shaped hairstyle/十字髻 was one of the characteric hairstyles of that time period.

Right: pottery female entertainer figurines, judging by the hairstyles, these are probably from Tang dynasty (618 - 907 AD). The hairstyle of the musicians to the sides are banfanji/半翻髻, the musician to the left is playing a sheng/笙, while the musician to the right is playing a paixiao/排箫. The dancer in the middle has a feixianji/飞仙髻 hairstyle.

Tang-era bronze mirror decorated with auspicious creatures and grapes. Traditionally, grapes motif symbolize longevity and wealth. This is the back of the mirror, the other side is the actual mirror, which is polished frequently and meticulously so that it may serve its purpose.

Various Tang-era hair ornaments made of silver, gold, or jade:

Tang-era sancai pottery tomb guardians:

Northern Zhou-era (557 - 581 AD) stone sarcophagus from Tomb of Master Shi/史君墓, also known as Tomb of Wirkak, dating from 580 AD:

A close up at the epitaph on the sarcophagus, which is written in Chinese and Sogdian. Translation of the epitaph from Wikipedia:

(The period) Daxiang of Great Zhou, year 2, in the first month of a rat year, on the 23rd day. So: there was a man of a family from Kish, domiciled in Guzang. From the emperor he holds the rank (of) sabao of Guzang, in the land of the Sogdians, a landowner. He is named Wirkakk, the son of Wanuk, (namely) Wanuk, the son of the sabao. And (his) wife, born in Xinping, is named Wiyusi. And Wirkakk the sabao married (his) wife in Xinping in a pig year, on the 7th day of the 6th month, on a hare day. And afterwards, here in Xianyang (= Chang’an), he himself died in a pig year, on the 7th day of the 5th month. And his wife too died on the 7th day of the 6th month, on a hare day, in the same year (as her) marriage, the same month, the same day. There is no living being which is born which is not subject to death; moreover, it is hard to complete (one’s) period in the world of the living. But this is harder (still), that, without being aware (of it), a husband and wife see one another (for the first time) the same year, the same month, the same day, in the human world (and) also in paradise, (so that) the beginning of (their) life together (in each place) may be at the same period. This stone tomb was made by Vreshman-vande, Zhimat-vande (and) Prot-vande, desiring a suitable place for (their) father (and) mother. — Epitaph of the tomb of Wirkak. Translated from the Sogdian by Nicholas Sims-Williams.

A clay model of a building for burial, if I remember right this is from Ming dynasty (1368 - 1644), I'm not 100% sure.

Traditionally, Chinese people believe that spirits of the dead will continue to exist and "live", so the dead must be treated as if they are alive, a concept known as 事死如事生. This is why ancient Chinese tombs were often filled with belongings of the deceased, their favorite and most prized treasures, and (often clay) models of houses and possessions, etc. A very famous example of this is Qin Shi Huang's terra cotta army. This is also why Chinese people today still burn paper offerings in the shape of money (mingbi/冥币; colloquially called paper money/纸钱) and items (called zhizha/纸扎) for the deceased. The biggest difference is that today's paper offerings might take the shape of modern items like laptops or cars.

Ming-era pottery figurines, arranged in a procession

A landscape painting hand scroll, and if I'm reading the plaque right (there were a lot of people so I didn't get to take a picture of the plaque), it's by famous Yuan dynasty painter Zhao Mengfu/赵孟頫 (1254 - 1322). This particular style of landscape painting is called blue-green landscape painting (青绿山水画), and is so named for its characteristic blue-green color of the mountains. Since the color was produced by mineral pigments, it's long-lasting and does not fade. The most famous painting of this style is One Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains (《千里江山图》) by Wang Ximeng/王希孟 in Northern Song dynasty (960 - 1127 AD).

And last but not least, this one surprised me too......clay water pipes from Qin dynasty (221 - 207 BC):

[merakisphere]

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[tyran-the-tyranical]

Possible inspiration for Messmer

I don’t know if anyone’s come to this conclusion yet (tbh ppl probably have but ima continue anyway) , but I have a possible inspiration for Messmer: Méche and his three serpents.

There are a lot of different cultural myths that inspired Elden ring, and there’s a lot of Irish inspiration too, and I cannot read about Méche and not think Messmer was inspired by him. For instance:

“Berba — into it the three snakes which were in the heart of Méche, son of the Mórrígan, were cast, after he was killed by Mac Cecht in Mag Méchi.”

Okay, for starters, Méche is a (supposed) son of the Irish goddess of war called the Mórrígan. The issue with his birth is, as stated above, is that he was born with three snakes within his heart (or he had three hearts with a snake in each but same thing), and well doesn't Messmer also have three snakes? his two outer ones and the abyssal serpent within,

And don't get me started on the whole naming convention of Mórrígan/Méche and Marika/Messmer. But sadly for Méche this was a big no-no due to his snake's destructive nature, and as a result, they killed him and his snakes, but there's also a little more I want to delve into:

Berba (Poem 13)

The Barrow, enduring its silence,

that flows through the folk of old Ailbe;

a labour it is to learn the cause whence is called

Barrow, flower of all famous names.

No motion in it made

the ashes of Mechi the strongly smitten:

the stream made sodden and silent past recovery

the fell filth of the old serpent.

Three turns the serpent made;

it sought out the soldier to consume him;

it would have wasted by its nature all the kine

of the indolent hosts of ancient Erin.

Therefore Diancecht slew it:

there was rude reason for clean destroying it,

for preventing it for ever from wasting

above every resort, from consuming utterly.

Known to me is its grave where he cast it,

a tomb without walls or roof-tree;

its evil ashes,–no ornament to the region

found silent burial in noble Barrow.

(The Metrical Dindshenchas)

So, in this description, they describe how they 'buried' his ashes in the river Barrow, and they describe it as a sort of cleansing of his snakes due to the water being ' a tomb without walls or roof-tree.'  It kind of speaks about the water's purifying nature of the serpents' corruption. Why am I bringing this up?

Well, another major theme about Messmers' area in-game is that everything is randomly flooded; there's water everywhere around the keep (ok maybe not everywhere but u get what I mean) there are flooded areas of just water and I even think under there that there's something to do with a corpse of godwyn beneath one of the flooded areas but don't trust me 100% on that, anyway, the presence of water and especially flooding his keep and the places around it kinda calls back to Méche and his death, but idk it's probably just a coincidence since still water already has meaning in the main game with the whole scarlet rot thing and all, but I just thought it was interesting to mention.

[milezperprower]

RAGAMASTER GANG DESIGNS/CONCEPTS!!! [UP TO DATE!!!]

zoob's is more of a rough concept, but its definetly getting close to what i imagine them to be! i referenced things like old vintage circus wind-up toys and mix-and-match toys for them! one thing i noticed in particular is that the colors on the vintage toys tended to be mainly bold primary colors with maybe some licks of green here and there, so i tried to keep that in mind while applying zooble's colors!

i also imagine that like stated before in the previous posts, the materials of their body parts are similar to the ones found in vintage toys, such as wood, tin, rubber, and hell even some springs. i imagine their head and body is made out of chipped/ worn wood, their limbs out of either rubber or springs (tin for the claw), and their wings to based on foam with stiff fake feathers, like the ones on angel ornaments!

i imagine their wings are probably more of a pain and a dead weight on zooble's back rather to be of actual use, however they CAN move them! i think they're probably too cumbersome and heavy to fly with, but tbh drawing them flying is kinda fun LOL.

the deer antler on the left side of their head is made out of birch bark, while the goat's horn is made of stone!

and yes, they DO have a functional wind up, but i have a feeling that nobody really touches because they KNOW zooble would flay them alive if they DARED to LMAO.

anyways, hopefully yall like this infodump as much as i had writing it!

id love to touch on the others but im a bit burned out after typing all that, so just take their descriptions for what you will for now

[only-lonely-star]

‧₊ ᵎᵎ ⋆ 🎃 ˚｡⋆.ೃ࿔ Halloween HCs ‧₊ ᵎᵎ ⋆ 🎃 ˚｡⋆.ೃ࿔

Warnings - Mentions of gore, Johnny’s headcanons are kind of sad tbh 😭, “laced” candy, mentions of Curtis’ deceased parents.

Author’s Note - These are miscellaneous headcanons!! I can’t bring myself to wait until Halloween to post this, so I’m doing it now! I’ve been in the fall mood for so long and this scratched my brain just right. I would kill to live in Tulsa around the holiday season in the 60s- like you guys don’t even understand. I hope you enjoy! 🐈‍⬛🍂

── ── ⋆⋅🎃⋅⋆ ── ──

The Curtis gang NEVER misses on Halloween, it’s their night.

I can definitely see Two-Bit going all out with his sister (I personally HC her to be younger, around 6 maybe), and decorating their porch all cutesy with jack-o-lanterns and fake spiderwebs. Two-Bit would probably take her trick or treating around 7-8 pm when it’s just getting dark. He’ll save the actual night for fun with the gang.

Soda and Ponyboy still go trick or treating even though most greasers see that as “little kid stuff” and stop around the age of 12. It’s like a tradition for them to go every year. Darry grew out of it before their parents had passed, but when they were still alive they sent him to drive Soda and Pony around town and help out with navigating the streets. He still does it to feel more at ease with them going out as well as reminiscing on past Halloweens. (This made me think of the annual ornament situation from S.E Hinton’s Christmas story 💔)

Darry always rummages through Soda and Ponyboy’s bags and picks out his favorites to smuggle from them, hoping they won’t notice. I just know he loves his chocolate bars - I’m talking Hershey’s bars and Milky Way bars.

I feel like Dally would be an even bigger asshole and blame it on Halloween.

Dally tricks, he doesn’t treat.

He’d also pull all sorts of pranks on people he knows just for kicks. He’d try and scare Tim or some shit by messing with his lights and causing loud banging sounds from outside. Tim obviously knows it’s Dally so he chooses to ignore him until he can’t take it anymore.

Steve’s favorite holiday growing up was always Halloween. He would always earn the title of best dressed for the costumes Mrs. Curtis would hand sew ☹️. She took pride in it too, she’d work super hard until he was satisfied with it. (I get superhero vibes from him, maybe even like a pirate 😭)

The Curtis household is THE hangout for trading candy (let’s be honest, when is it not?)

Johnny’s favorite holiday is Halloween because it’s one of the few major holidays that doesn’t require him to see families bonding all around him ☹️ (Also because he can roam the streets without being singled out for being a Greaser.)

I’m pretty sure (like 99% sure) it’s canon that Dally is afraid of spiders, so I think it’s safe to say he fucking HATES any of those life-sized spiders people put on their windows as decoration.

Johnny hates people dressed up as the dead, it’s just unsettling to him when people do that whole ‘fake axe in the head’ thing or plastic intestines (I hope you guys know what I mean, or else I sound like I’m literally insane.)

Halloween is Ponyboy’s second favorite holiday (besides Christmas) because he gets to dress up. I think this is so cute because I also headcanon him to do theater for school. 😭❤️ Costumes are very exciting for him because he’s so used to doing it for theater.

Darry loves to carve pumpkins with silly faces and put them out on their porch for the little kids when they stop by. I personally think he’d be so great with kids since he’s had the older brother role all his life.

Darry can’t STAND fruity and chewy candy.

Two-Bit was Mickey Mouse for Halloween when he was like five and it just stuck with him. 😭 I also feel like he could imitate Mickey’s voice so well that a little part of his inner child is screams every time he successfully does it without having a voice crack.

Cherry ironically hates cherry-flavored lollipops or chews even though everyone hands her that specific flavor to be funny. She thinks it tastes like medicine. (She likes the fruit though!)

Soda will gladly suck down the old grandma candy nobody likes. Those strawberry chews, butterscotch, off-brand candy corn - he’ll eat all of it.

Steve would totally try to make the DX all festive for Halloween and tell Soda “it’s for the kids” even though no kids willingly go to the GAS STATION unless their parents drag them along.

Ponyboy lovessss Halloween movies and usually wants to watch them with Johnny since he loves the horror portion of a ‘Halloween movie’. Johnny likes the thrill.

Two-Bit dresses up at school on Halloween. He doesn’t give a shit, it’s canon he just goes for kicks.

Johnny likes to hang with Dally and mess with people or play stupid pranks on them since he really doesn’t like the idea of trick-or-treating at sixteen.

Johnny grew out of trick-or-treating at a young age. He felt he was too mature for it since he was forced to toughen up as a kid due to his parent's constant abuse. Normal child activities feel foreign to him.

Halloween parties at Buck’s go CRAZY and Dally always looks forward to seeing those girls in skimpy ‘costumes’. (Very Mean Girls ‘Halloween rule’ inspired.)

Darry used to always be like a little photographer on Halloween eve and would take pictures of Soda and Pony and proudly show the pictures to their parents. “Pony, give me your pillowcase so i can take a photo… now hold your hat up… smile normally, not in character….perfect…”

“Careful, you gotta check that candy first, kid. people hide blades and stuff in candy,” while Two-Bit stabs Ponyboy’s candy bar with his switchblade and laughs his ass off.

I’m so ready for Halloween. I don’t care how old I get, I’ll always love dressing up and shit and just fall vibes in general. I hope you guys enjoyed this as much as I did making it.

I LOVE YOU, THANK YOU FOR READING 💋

[spinningwebsandtales]

Imagine Going On A Cozy Christmas Date With Nanami

Nanami Kento X FemReader

Rating: G

Warnings: None

Word Count: 933

(A/N:) Hello fellow JJK and Nanami fangirls! It's a painful season and I was dreading Nanami's death being animated tbh. So to combat the pain and the feels I bring some cozy happiness to y'all for Christmas! I had this planned as something different buuut an idea popped into my head and I'm running with it! Hopefully this helps ease some of the pain until something else happens! Until next time happy reading! ~Countess

The winter streets of Tokyo were aglow with Christmas lights and decor lining the different shops, trying to tempt in shoppers. Your breath fogging in the air as you tried to warm up your hands. You were waiting for Nanami to return from a street cart that was advertising warm drinks. He had told you before you left to bring gloves, but you stubbornly refused them, wanting to hold his hand without gloves getting in the way. Your nose was turning pink from the nippy air as you continued to puff away at your chilly skin. Finally the familiar slicked blond hair came into view. Unlike you, Nanami was bundled up, gloves including as he held out your warm wintery treat. Complete with mounds of whipped cream and topped with crushed peppermint, your mouth watered at the deliciously sugary sight.

You took the offered cup, taking an appreciative sip while Nanami looked on.

"You need to stop hanging out around Gojo. His horrific taste in sweets is starting to rub off on you," he stated taking a long drink of his boring black coffee.

"Please," you snorted licking at the whipped cream mustache above your lip. "Just because you like to be boring and drink black coffee doesn't mean I have to. And for your information I've always had a sweet tooth thank you. Gojo has nothing to do with it."

You cupped the warm cup in your hands, shuddering at the warmth. Nanami rolled his eyes.

"I told you to wear gloves," he tsked.

"I wanted to hold your hand to keep warm," you pouted.

He sighed but took your hand just the same, giving it a squeeze before he placed your hand and his in his coat pocket. You hummed at the coziness of his body heat as you both started back down the street. It wasn't often that Nanami could get away from his sorcerer job, so you relished every second with him. You chatted away, telling Nanami of everything that has been going on and the plans that you had been thinking of to spend Christmas with him. Nanami just listened intently, letting you ramble even when the only breaks you took were to take a drink of your hot chocolate. You had even gotten him to take a little sip. You laughed at the whipped cream on his nose before you kissed it away, savoring the taste on your tongue.

A little further down the street, as you were browsing at clothing in a store window you felt a tap on your shoulder. A young woman with a camera around her neck asked if she could take you and Nanami's picture. You nodded eagerly and Nanami couldn't bring himself to refuse. She brought you both to a gorgeously decorated Christmas photo op. It didn't take long and now both of you had something to remember the night by. You pocketed yours, making sure not to bend it so you could put it on the wall around your bed when you got home. Nanami eased his copy into his wallet. You kissed his cheek before whisking him away to another place.

The park was normally empty this time of night, with the exception for the holiday season. With lights everywhere and trees decorated in different varieties of ornaments. It was nice to take a walk through the more crowded paths. Nanami tensed as some people bumped into you, but with a bow they apologized and he relaxed.

"Don't be so tense," you squeezed his hand.

"I can't help it. Bad things tend to follow big crowds," he pulled you in closer making sure that you couldn't be separated from him. Discarding the now empty paper cups into the trash, Nanami lead the way through several groups of people. Despite the walking and your tired feet, you didn't want the night to end. But Nanami being ever the perceptive one, noticed when you had started to limp a little bit. He was able to find an empty bench in the crowded park and he sat down letting you rest for a little bit before he called it a night.

"Thank you Nanami," you whispered in his ear.

"For what," he muttered while keeping an arm wrapped around your shoulders.

"For tonight and taking care of me," you answered. "Moments like these are precious to me."

He nodded, "I work a lot and waste a lot of my time there. But I never feel like I waste anything when I'm with you."

You blushed, thankful that your cheeks were already pink from the frosty weather. You tried to look away but Nanami refused to let you. His palm against your cheek he leaned in, his lips brushing over yours softly. He tried pulling away but you held onto his coat, willing him to go further. He took the hint, kissing you fervently. You sighed against him pressing into Nanami as you lost yourself in the touch and taste of him. The bitterness of his coffee dancing on your tongue, along with the smell tickling your nose. Meanwhile Nanami could still taste the chocolate and peppermint that he would come to associate with you. He didn't care there were others around, or if they were staring. At this moment to him it was just you and him. Pulling away, he was ready to get you home, away from the crowds where he could enjoy you to himself. Walking hand in hand out of the park you fell back into easy conversation, while Nanami planned something more concrete than just spending Christmas together.

[empty-dream]

Ngl from the moment I first saw her till now, I've always thought that Archetype: Earth from the late 2000s Melty Blood is one if not THE most beatiful and dangerous character Nasuverse ever produced. Hell, she (along with Arcueid) is the first one I'd think of when asked who is the most beautiful blond character ever. I don't know how to articulate it better, but everything about her exudes "inhumane beauty."

There is this dispassionate yet cruel royal aura around her. Big puffy ballgown that's screaming "princess." Feet-length hair that follows the rule of thumb: "The longer the hair is, the stronger the character is." Her slitted vampire eyes are also obvious culprit, but it's not just because of them. Nasuverse vampires and some other species have those same eyes, but hers is just different. I think it has to do with her expressions. Like if you get crushed in front of her, she would just walk away without even blinking or sneer because she is the one who crush you. It's like she's far removed from mortals, with the dignity and cruelty of a higher being. Which she actually is.

And for me it's something that's never been produced again. Not even when Takeuchi has evolved in terms of drawing and coloring skills. It's just one of a kind. Which leads to this thought below.

Tbh idk if this is a hot take and idc either way. Ever since her remake version came out, I've never felt as moved with the new design. (Idk which came first, FGO or Tsukihime Remake artwork.) Like, yes the art is still so gorgeous but some things felt off and I didn't know what exactly those are. And it kinda bugged me from the back of my mind for months. So after awhile I tried to decipher the answer myself.

Let's put aside the Saberface syndrome Takeuchi lately has because that's obvious reason from the get go.

Both have the same puffy white-blue ballgown with golden accent. But the Melty Blood version lacks ornaments like chockers, ribbons and tassels—accessories that royalty would wear. It's as if the Melty Blood version just throws the gown on without second thoughts. I've always considered Archetype Earth as both a supernatural regal big shot and a wild natural phenomenon, so the fact that she dresses like a princess in a pretty simple way enhances that image.

Personaly I like the Remake's blue shade better, but I can't help but be more familiar with the original one lol.

I guess the ankle-length dress is also a notable point. I know the actual combat sprite in Melty Blood has floor-length, and the picture above is her using her power so the hem gets elevated from the wind or something. But I still find the ankle-length to be weirdly unique because most of the time I see this type of ballgown reaching the ground like in the new design. That it somehow shows the heels and ankles just kinda fits the whole "this is not a normal human princess" thing going on.

Hairstyle. From the look of it, it seems the remake version is very emphasized as short hair with longer hair underneath, like Jeanne's. In fact I do dub it as THE Jeanne hair. The thing is, while Jeanne is feminine and dignified, she is noted to be tomboyish back in the day and did went to war leading men. So the combination works. All I'm saying is, that hairstyle has the feminine-yet-tomboyish combination vibe for me. That is not the kind of characterization I get from Archetype: Earth.

I much prefer the original one, just make it fully long behind the sidebangs. It's a bit vague but even if the original is actually short hair with longer hair, it is far less pronounced.

Note that I actually haven't read or got majorly exposed to the Tsukihime remake, so I don't know if there is already an explanation or characterization change for her in Tsukihime. Things I get are from FGO and since I think FGO kind of expands her characterization more, I can let it slide with its design choices. When it comes down to it, I just have my own taste and interpretation as well.

[ohbo-ohno]

CONGRATS ON 1K!!!! 🎉🎊🏆 May I please request “An old well” from the list? (Hehe, I’m a Sadako fan, I couldn’t resist) - 🕸

1k game here

how dare you make me google what "Sadako" is and see that terrifying shit. shame on you (/j)

inspired by an ancient mayan tradition where human sacrifices were shoved to the bottom of a well (which i read in a book called lotería, but i can't find sources on whether or not it's a real thing). the italics are a mayan prayer, found here

1.7k of god of rain ghost x sacrificed reader. there's actually very little ghost in this, sorry! it's mostly vibes tbh

The jewelry weighs down your every limb, dripping down your neck and arms. The mix of the drugs you'd been fed and the heavy ornaments leaves you unable to move, left lounging on the table you're carried on. You recite the prayer of the seven directions as you're paraded through the streets of your city.

From the East, House of Light May wisdom Dawn in us So we may see all things in clarity

You can hear the cheering crowds of your people. As scared as you are, you comfort yourself with the knowledge that you're helping them. If the God of Rain accepts your sacrifice, your people will have a prosperous harvest. And then, if the gods are kind, they will feast.

From the North, House of the Night May Wisdom Ripen in Us So we may know all from within

It's not much, but it's enough for you to find peace with your coming death. You picture your mother and father, bellies full and bodies healthy, and you know that it is enough. It has to be enough.

From the West, House of Transformation May Wisdom be transformed into right action So we may do what must be done

The sun shines down on you, leaving your skin tight and burning. There's not a cloud in the sky, yet another reminder of what your sacrifice is for. The rain god has not been pleased in recent months, and you are the final attempt at regaining his favor.

From the South, House of the Eternal Sun May right action reap the harvest So we may enjoy the fruits of Planetary being

You take a deep breath and let your eyes slip closed. You tell yourself there is peace in death, that you'll meet the ancestors with open arms. You are not afraid.

From Above, House of Heaven Where star people and Ancestors gather May their blessings come to us Now

A tear slips down your cheek as the table is settled to the ground. The cheering is a distant sound now, left at the bottom of the steps of the temple. You slowly blink your eyes open, and see the blurry image of your halach uinic, you ruler. He's a tall man - big and dark and broad, decorated with the scars of his conquest. His regalia nearly outshines yours.

He pulls you up with surprisingly gentle hands, doesn't even flinch when you give him almost all of your weight. The drugs you'd been given paint the world in stunning colors as they begin to settle more, and you watch with wide-eyes as the scars across his torso begin to move.

From Below, House of Earth May the heartbeat of her crystal core Bless us with harmonies to end all war

"We thank you for your sacrifice," you hear him saying, his voice muffled. He's reciting a prayer you've heard a dozen times before, before dozens of sacrifices. It's as familiar as the one you finish in your head, eyes slipping closed to give you a break from all the squirming scars.

From the Center, Galactic Source Which is everywhere at once May everything be known As the light of mutual love

"And we pray to you, Great God of Rain, of Thunder and Lightning, that you will split the clouds again, and allow us the great gift of your prosperity! We pray that our humble sacrifice be accepted, that our Woman be to your pleasure."

There's a muted sense of grief for yourself, deep in your chest. You can tell yourself again and again that you're ready to meet the dead, to beg for entrance to Death's kingdom, but it doesn't make the departure from life any easier.

"Are you ready?" The halach uinic asks, but you both know that you can't answer. It's difficult enough to open your eyes and look at him, nodding - or even speaking - isn't possible right now.

He's careful not to brush your skin as he guides you forward, hands wrapped around the gold bangles. He stands behind you, and your breath hitches.

You know what happens now. He's going to shove you into the well, where you will die and hope the God of Rain accepts your spirit before allowing you to pass on.

It doesn't make you less terrified when his handles settle on your shoulders. Your breathing shudders in and out of you, tears slipping down your cheeks.

You don't get a warning. One minute you're standing at the top of the temple, at the edge of the well, and the next you're falling through the air.

Oh Yum Hunab Ku Evam Maya E Ma Ho All Hail the Harmony of Mind and Nature

It's a terrifying thing, to fall.

The jewelry does it's job, weighting you down so you sink far faster than you would've naked. It flies into the air behind you, the thick necklaces pulling back on your neck and nearly choking you. You're forced to turn in the air, with the futile hope that your neck won't break. The adrenaline and fear gives you just enough energy to turn mid-air.

You want to scream as you watch the spot of light become smaller and smaller at the top of the well. You want to wail and cry and kick and beg, beg any deity listening to stop time, to keep you from falling.

But you have to be thankful. If you die angry, the God of Rain will never accept your sacrifice.

You let your eyes fall shut again, and pray the drugs do their job. You pray it doesn't hurt to die.

Mercifully, your prayers are answered. You can both hear and feel when you stop falling, the sudden jerk to stillness a shock, and the heavy weight of gold and emerald landing on top of your chest.

It both hurts and doesn't. You're aware that it should hurt, that you should be in unfathomable pain, that you should be sobbing and begging for the relief of death.

But there's no pain. There's a weight, a heavy cloud over your existence, but there's no pain.

It's dark at the bottom of the well. The glow from the sky is faint this far down, giving you only the impression of light. There's a glow coming from somewhere to your right, but you aren't strong enough to turn your head and look.

All you can do is breathe shallowly and stare up at the small blue circle above you.

Then, footsteps.

Loud, scraping footsteps, like the person making them isn't lifting his feet the whole way. Your breath hitches, but you force yourself to relax.

This is it. This is the moment you meet the God of Rain and beg him to accept your sacrifice.

He appears above you in pieces. A head of hair, a mask, a neck, a shoulder, a torso.

He's large, like all gods are presumed to be, and wearing a mask of bone like you've seen painted across temple walls.

"Another one?" He rumbles, voice low and echoing.

It's jarring to hear a god speak. His voice is both loud and quiet, both echoing and muffled, for you and for everyone. He's cloaked in black and bone, a picture of death, but his gift to your people is life. He's a contradiction, in every sense of the word.

"Please-" you choke out, voice weak and quiet. You have to fight to get the words past your throat, the drugs leaving you a prisoner in your own body. "Please... accept.... my hu... humble sacrifice.... and.... and...."

He sighs, stepping away. "Quiet."

You listen immediately, praying you haven't already ruined everything.

"They're always so slow," he mutters to himself. Before you can realize he's come back, you're lifted into his arms, held like a baby.

The part of your mind untouched by the drugs screams at this blessing, this gift, but the part of you still high only goes limp.

"No wonder you humans need so much extra help. Can hardly even speak yet."

Your eyebrows furrow, and you feel the pointless need to defend yourself. "It's... drugs...."

"What?" He looks down at you. "You're still alive?"

The best you manage is a hum.

"Huh. None of you have ever made it this long. Good for you, I supposed. Drugs, you said? Why on Earth would you be on drugs?"

"So..." you take a breath. The air is musty and cold down here, unpleasant in your mouth. "So... no... pain."

He snorts. "That does make sense. You humans are very sensitive, it can't be pleasant to hit the ground from such a height."

You'd laugh, if you could. Who knew gods could be talkative?

You're laid out on something cold and rough, almost like stone beneath your naked back. A hand presses into your stomach, forcing you to lay flat.

"I don't think any of you have made it this long," he muses to himself. "At least, not in recent centuries." His hand is warm as it strokes over the sensitive skin of your concave stomach. "You're very thin for a human. The ones they send have been getting thinner and thinner every year."

"Famine..." you whisper, rapidly losing your ability to speak. You can feel yourself fading now, can feel the first inklings of pain beginning in your head.

"Hmm. I suppose I have been putting off my duties for a bit too long."

A few tears slip down your cheeks, your body going cold.

"Well, I suppose you are a rather good sacrifice. Determined little thing, aren't you?" His warm hand cups your cheek, turning it to the side. You whine when that makes the pain ten times worse, lips quivering. "Hush, little one. Would you like the pain to go away?"

You try to look up at him. It takes several tries, every part of you slowly losing it's numbness. Everything is excruciating.

"There you are," he hums again, thumb stroking just between your eye. "It has been a while since I've had an assistant. I might keep you to myself for a bit."

If you were at all capable of anything but crying, your eyebrows would furrow. As it is, you can't do anything but sob.

"Alright, hush now," he shushes, other hand coming up to cover your eyes. "Let go, little human. Things will be very different for you when you wake up."

You're helpless to obey, closing your eyes against the pain and welcoming the sweet oblivion of death. You feel the God of Rain by your side the entire time, hand resting over your eyes. It's painful, but his presence brings you some peace.

You hope your sacrifice was worth it, hope that he'll bring water to your people again.

[the-punforgiven]

So that teaser image dropped and I must say

I am DEEPLY fascinated with how similar in design this armor is to the carian knight's set!

With the helmet being an ornately embossed close helm with a visor that tapers upwards into a point, and a very large, noticeable crest at the top, it seems incredibly intentional tbh

Also the armor having a distinct robe-style surcoat with notable ornamentation overtop of it (the embossed gorget in this mystery person's case, and that brown... thing? In the carian knight's set) with the surcoat also being held in place by a belt (Plus additional Brown Thing for the Carian set lol)

They also both have a well engraved center line down the breastplate, and they even both have a cape!

There's also a distinct double-gauntet sort of shape in the forearm, though this mystery figure's seems more articulated at the wrist. The sort of secondary gauntlet shape halfway up on the forearm also appears to be leather(?) on the mystery person's left hand, which strikes me as VERY interesting since Miquella's followers have been known to borrow from Carian design in the past, as is the case with the Miquellan Knight's sword

This armor seems overall a bit heavier than the Carian set but their design overlaps in a lot of ways that feel VERY intentional to me! Needless to say I am EXTREMELY curious who this new figure is lol

[ryuichirou]

Replies

Talking about doll!Rook, beastmen wearing jockstraps and twst boys having erectile dysfunction…

Anonymous asked:

oh dear god that rook doll is creeping me out

Awww, come on, look, he is so friendly and so snuggly! <3 I’m sure if you spend a little time in the same room with him, you’ll get along just fine.

Anonymous asked:

Wow! How terrible! Très bien! Incredible!

Sensing mixed signals here, Anon..!

But it’s okay, if this doll is good at anything, it’s creating strong and conflicting emotions.

Anonymous asked:

Fucking abomanation of a doll

But tbh Epel seems like the kind of kid who had one of those older relatives who had a bunch of dolls and puppets just standing around

I’m giggling so hard at all the reactions to that doll LOL Rook’s pjs makes him look like such a perfect Christmas ornament! Or just a regular ol’ creepy doll…

Also good point; Epel did say that he used to get tons of plushies from everyone around since he is the only kid his age in the village. So if any of his relatives had any creepy dolls lying around, Epel absolutely inherited those… Maybe he shouldn’t be so terrified of doll!Rook after all 🤔

Anonymous asked:

Do you think some characters with tails wear jockstraps and some just have a tail hole in their underwear? Who do you think does what?

I went and read through our underwear hc post again only to realise that the only two people that I named as jockstrap wearers are Rook and Vargas…. Wow…

But you’re right, jockstraps could be a nice option for those who have tails! I think Leona and Jack could wear those, even though Jack would be kind of embarrassed about it at first. But then he’d get used to it… Ruggie doesn’t really like jockstraps, but maybe it’s because they don’t sit on his bony ass right lol

Hmm, Che’nya has a lot of different kinds of undies, but he would also wear jockstraps every once in a while. Fellow and Gidel wear regular underwear though, and sometimes they have to add the tail hole themselves…

Anonymous asked:

do you think there have ever been instances where someone couldn't get it up? was it embarassing, awkward, annoying? have any of them ever taken viagra or something similar?

Abso-fucking-lutely, Anon…

It definitely happened to Ace at least once because he just got too nervous, and unfortunately Ace’s wishes are in conflict with his dick wishes a lot of times: it gets hard when it’s not appropriate, finishes too fast when Ace wants to last longer, and stays sad and limpy when Ace wants it to perform well. It’s one of those things that will get better over time as he gets older, but in Ace’s mind this is one of the biggest problems in the world, and he is dumb enough to overdo it with a Viagra-like potion. He is that one guy that could get himself in trouble in either a sexy (oh no Ace has to have sex until he passes out or his dick won’t stop being hard!) or stupid (wow this idiot drank too much potion and all his blood went down there and now he fainted and broke his nose) kind of way.

Cater could also have this issue, but mostly because he tries to force himself to get into it, “fake it till you make it” kind of thing, but if he is really out of it, so no matter how hard he acts like everything is all hot and sexy, his body won’t play along. And sometimes he just randomly gets limp because he thought of something very un-sexy and couldn’t get the image out of his head. Ahh, what is this curse!!

Azul’s thing malfunctions sometimes… It’s not like it’s a huge problem usually because he isn’t very sexually active, and it’s difficult to say why it is (a side effect of the transformation potion?), but if it happens even once, it’s probably going to wound his ego forever. He’ll instantly blame the whole “human penis” thing and turn into an octopus in the bedroom, disregarding the fact that as an octopus he is too huge to fit in there lol

Jade and Floyd both, but with them it’s not like it’s this embarrassing thing, it’s more of a “wow I am bored, see?” If they are not into it and aren’t entertained enough, they won’t be able to get their things hard and ready, even direct stimulation probably won’t help in this situation. They won’t be embarrassed, annoyed – yes, but with the situation itself being boring, and not with their own malfunction. The fact that their dicks are huge and need a lot of bloodflow to get hard in the first place, it’s probably not that surprising, but with how rock hard they get when they’re very into it, one might not expect that from them…

Kalim… sometimes… can’t even explain this one, he just seems like someone who would go “oops, haha…” and get kind of embarrassed about it, but it’d still be Jamil’s problem to solve because he can’t have the Asim’s son getting all limp like that. Fortunately, Jamil works better than Viagra, and he should keep that in mind for the future, when Kalim is inevitably going to have problems impregnating his future wives.

Lilia never had those problems in the past (despite his size…), but he does have problems getting his thing up every now and then these days. He kind of gets embarrassed by it, but still has this attitude of “well, that’s getting old for you”. He would take Viagra at least once though just to see if it would feel any different from how he always is. And similarly to Ace, he would take too big of a dose!

You know what, I clowned Ace (and Lilia) for drinking too much love potion to fix their little issue, but I think everyone in this could do it, all for different reasons lol