#new chinese jewelry design

[xinyidecor]

Poetic National Color·Oriental Aesthetics

There seemed to be thousands of words to say, but not a single word was revealed.

[albontology]

it goes without explanation with zhou's new helmet is dope as hell. i will provide explanation anyways.

(above, zhou's helmet design as posted to the KV design twitter)

the central design on zhou's helmet is almost certainly inspired by the traditional craft of mother-of-pearl inlay in lacquerware, a practice which originated in China over 6 thousand years ago, and which has been developed and practiced in discrete forms historically in Korea and Japan alike. (continued under the cut!)

(on the left, a korean (goryeo dynasty) lacquerware stationery box; on the right, a chinese (song dynasty) lacquerware lidded bowl for cosmetics or incense. both photos via the met museum website)

traditionally, lacquerware is created through the refinement of a toxic plant sap into a naturally deep and glossy adhesive coat that is built up and polished often on top of wooden furniture and decorative items, such as chests and jewelry boxes. in the above examples, you can see two types of lacquerware practice.

on the left is mother-of-pearl inlay, which is created through the careful grinding down of tortoise or abalone shell into thin iridescent sheets which are then carefully cut into shape and imbedded into the coats of dark lacquer, being repeatedly covered and then polished down in the lacquer until the shiny shell surface is level with its surroundings. it's both visually stunning and incredibly labor-intensive: for a case like this, there would have been separate artisans making the wooden base box, making the metalware (hinges and clasps) for the box, applying the base layers of lacquer, and then completing the inlay itself.

on the right is (what i understand to be) a predominantly chinese lacquer practice, which is carving into the layers of lacquer to form images in relief. while this practice is not replicated on zhou's helmet, the image selected does display the pattern of the peony flower, which i believe to be the flower depicted in the inlay! the striations of the central petals seem to match zhou's. of course, this is speculative and only based off an amateur's eye, especially considering the motif of scrolling foliage is fairly ubiquitous and somewhat generic in east asian decorative art.

(on the left, zhou's 2024 helmet (detail). on the right, a detail image of a korean chest decorated with mother-of-pearl. zhou's helmet via twitter, right image via the met museum website)

the 'metallic' or 'holographic' effect a lot of people have recognized is a natural property of polished mother-of-pearl: look at the iridescence of the design! while it has been exaggerated to some extent on zhou's helmet (for good effect, i must say), you can clearly see the inspiration when compared side-by-side with a more predominantly mother-of-pearl composition: the variegation between blues, greens, and warmer peachy-reds is mesmerizing.

i really want to drive home how brilliant of a design this is and give the due appreciation to KV Design, who made this helmet for zhou. clearly a lot of thought and creativity went into it, and I can't wait to see it in action. >:D

[niteshade925]

April 14, Xi'an, China, Shaanxi History Museum, Qin and Han Dynasties Branch (Part 2 - Daily Life, Societal Structure, and Culture):

This is one of the undisputed stars of the museum, the “Strange Golden Creature” (no joke, that's literally what's on the plaque), unearthed in Shaanxi Province in 1957. The reason for this name is probably because archaeologists haven't figured out what mythical creature this is supposed to be. It does seem to be from the ancient Xiongnu culture and appears to be a "chimera" of sorts, in the sense that it combines the general body of a deer, multiple birds (17 total; most are part of the antlers), and the branches of a tree. This artifact is one of my favorites, and showcases the advanced gold-working techniques of the ancient Xiongnu people. I can already imagine this mythical creature in a painting (although I suck at painting lol).

A yubi/玉璧, or jade disk, decorated with gu pattern/谷纹 (谷 means "grains"), this is because these patterns resemble sprouting rice kernels.

Han dynasty (202 BC - 220 AD) era jade cicada amulets (玉蝉). Cicadas symbolize "rebirth" into a new form (specifically becoming a xian/仙 immortal) in Chinese mythology, since they burrow beneath the ground as nymphs and re-emerge before moulting into their adult forms. There's a sentence in the biography of Qu Yuan/屈原 (the guy whose death was said to be the reason why Duanwu Festival/端午节 and zongzi/粽子 exist) from Records of the Grand Historian/《史记》 that gives an idea on what cicadas represent:

"Standing in muck yet can cleanse himself (referring to Qu Yuan) of it, like a cicada emerging from muddy filth, able to fly above and remain unsullied by worldly dust, persisting in its innocence despite it all." (濯淖汙泥之中，蟬蛻於濁穢，以浮游塵埃之外，不獲世之滋垢，皭然泥而不滓者也。)

There are two types of cicada amulets, the ones with holes are meant to be worn as jewelry, and ones without holes are meant to be placed in the mouth of the deceased before burial, so that the deceased can become a xian immortal after death.

Left: jade decor piece, not sure what it was a part of. Right: the decorated jade pommel of a sword.

A Han-era painted clay statue of a sitting woman. As mentioned in an earlier post, this sitting position is called jizuo/跽坐. Sitting like this on cushions or on specialized T-shaped stools called zhizhong/支踵 (designed in such a way that one is basically sitting on the stool and not on one's legs) was the proper formal sitting posture, until chairs were popularized post-Tang dynasty (618 - 907 AD). Before then people used beds as chairs.

Han-era painted pottery figurines of entertainers

An arrangement of pottery models and figurines that shows life in the courtyard of a residence in Han dynasty:

Pottery figurine of a chef/butcher (this type of figurines is called paochuyong/庖厨俑). I think that thing on the table is a......fish?

Left: pottery model of a stove. Right: pottery model of a mill

Painted pottery models of areas on farms and painted pottery figurines of domestic animals. Don't know what those long-necked animals in the pen are supposed to be though......

A life size gilded bronze silkworm. It goes without saying that silkworms were an important part of life in ancient China:

Left: Warring States period (476 - 221 BC) silver sitting deer. Right: a small figurine of a waterfowl eating fish

Diagram of the cattle-drawn ploughs used during Qin and Han dynasties. The 4 line drawings of different ploughs are taken from unearthed stone reliefs depicting daily life:

Eastern Han era (25 - 220 AD) "country estate" (田庄; not sure if "country estate" is the correct translation, but in any case many Chinese terms do not have exact equivalents in English, so even if this is "correct", it's probably the "close enough" translation) structure. This base-level societal structure remains without too much variation throughout the dynasties, and is the reason why people have defined imperial China's social structure as "feudal"--again, not the exact same as feudalism in Europe, since on a general overall political level imperial China (Qin dynasty to Qing dynasty) governs by centralization of power (中央集权制 in Chinese), but imperial China is "feudal" in many ways at the base levels of society, especially in terms of farmers and their relationship with land (their means of production; farmers may not always own their own land and may be forced to work for landlords). Side note: this is why people have proposed the statement "皇权不下县" ("the emperor's powers cannot reach below county level"), why farmers were the main force in many rebellions, and why tax reforms throughout Chinese history also had to do with land ownership (ex: Song dynasty Wang Anshi's Equal Tax Law/方田均税法 and Ming dynasty Zhang Juzheng's Single Whip Reform/一条鞭法; I will be touching on the latter in my future posts on the show Under the Microscope).

Peacock lamp, from the tomb of the famous Eastern Han dynasty official Yang Zhen/杨震:

Map showing the spread of Buddhism and Christianity to different parts of the world by 600 AD:

And lastly, this small part of a wall relief does a great job capturing my mental state after pulling an all-nighter:

[accio-victuuri]

xiao zhan’s mfw interview clues, talismans and matching ads. 🎤

based from the ones released today: v magazine, tencent fashion, tod’s and mr. bags. nothing too big, just some connection/s to already established cpns. feel free to appreciate and enjoy the interviews for what they are even without clowning. 🫶🏼

* V Magazine China

when he talked about superpowers, he has changed his answer from being invisible, he just wishes that there will be no disputes in the world. tho the topic is really about what he wants a parallel world to be like. interesting answer. i’m gonna wait for wyb to have an interview with a similar question and see if they will match 😂😂😂

he also answered that his style is more casual and comfortable which is exactly the same as wyb answered a similar question. not that we ever doubted how similar their personal style is. they may choose or prefer different pieces, but it has the same feel. this is who they steal each other clothes and blend in when they want to.

how he answered the question what he learned about style is to subtract. which may mean less is more or something like that. it matches what wyb said he learned about a different thing — acting. so i see this as a similarity between them, they don’t do overdo things.

🎤: If you had two hours of free time, where would you like to spend it?

🐰: Just strolling around. A city-walk.

I hope he does this with WYB! We was this happen in a lot of ZZ’s vlogs.

🎤: What is the most surprising thing from Gucci 2024 Autumn/Winter Women’s Wear show?

🐰: I think the biggest surprise is the bag. I like it very much, the shape of the bag is very avant-grade and bold.

His interest in bags is here again 👀 In his 2019 interview for MFW, he was asked about what his favorite accessory and he answered bag. The CPN happened because WYB was asked in an interview of his promotion of a jewelry brand (Emphasis ) about what jewelry he will give to his loved one. he answered a bag. lol. the question is about a jewelry but he still answered something different. who is he thinking about? a certain someone who loves bags?

🎤: Do you have any unforgettable anecdotes during the Chinese New Year that you can share with everyone?

🐰: There seems to be no Chinese New Year because I spent the Chinese New Year with the crew.

A confirmation what we already know, that he spent CNY in HD. the thing we won’t ever know tho is if WYB was there. Tho some clues point to the answer being yes.

* Tencent Fashion interview

Not much here but he just repeated how he loves bags. Lol. && how his priority is to film. I imagine the same is true for WYB.

* Tod’s interview

I didn’t share the translation for that. sorry! here it is in all it’s glory. not much cpn tho because the questions are centered on his clothes and the show.

🎤: After watching the first show of Tod's new creative director Matteo, can you share with us your first impressions?

🐰: Excited! and then when I was watching the show, I have been taking pictures all the time. Because there are many coats which I like it very much, including the bags, and I think it’s a brand-new attempt. You can see the second show, which is very unique especially it is placed at the tram stop in Milan — I heard that this tram stop is still in active service, can still be used.

🎤: What are the highlights of today’s outfit? Can you introduce it to us?

🐰: Today’s outfit is a more elegant and low-key style. It is a design of the collar on this coat, in fact you can see that it is actually a leather material, this collar can stand up, then you can put it on here and put it on in another way. Then, include this pair of shoe which is also my favorite loafer and this belt, it is also has a very unique design, it has a hemp material and then combine it with leather.

🎤: If you were asked to recommend one of the most “Italian” items you saw on the show today, which one would you recommend?

🐰: Ah~ it’s so difficult! I think there is a lot of it — I think it’s leather, I think everything about leather, the coat including leather on it’s shoes and trousers.

🎤: What are the three must- have travel stuffs during fashion week?

🐰: phone, passport, also…also the (important) card.

🎤: In a series of film and television works, how do you think different costumes help shape the character’s image?

🐰: It does help yourself to get into the role better.

🎤: You have been to Milan Fashion Week many times. Compared with the first time, what changes do you feel this time?

🐰: This time I felt more relaxed and also more cordial. There is a feeling of going home, especially there is DDV Yeye ( Tod’s CEO ) just now, he always tell me how he always welcomed me back says “Welcome back!” I felt woah! that moment was very warm. Then, of course there is conscious lifestyles of Tods that can’t live without.

🎤: Not long ago, you sang “As You Wish” at the Beijing TV Spring Festival Gala. What kind of New Year wishes do you have for everyone?

🐰: (smooth and healthy) for everyone

* Interview with Mr. Bags

this is year 3 of his interview with him! it’s one i’m waiting for cause xz is comfortable with & i feel like he can get away with asking more personal questions.

🎤: Yes, then I saw your personal clothes later I did serious study and research of it on internet. I think our Xiao laoshi really have a personal style, is very good at dressing and I just found out that — for example you will wear some hats, then the scarf and then you will also wear some of these big coats?

XZ: That’s right.

🎤: It looks warm, it has a sense of youth.

XZ: In fact, I felt it safer and then it’s more comfortable because I’m actually myself, in terms of personal clothing I prefer not too many colors, It is mainly; gray, black series and white colors. Those that are comfortable to wear and can’t go wrong and also most effective.

same thing about his personal style and what colors he chooses which is very close to wyb’s.

🎤: I also heard that Xiao Zhan is actually a very homely person. If it weren’t for work then you would just stay at home so I wonder what you usually do when you are at home?

XZ: Actually, I can also play games, sometimes I will have fun, but for most of time I spend my time working out.

this matches some recent fake rumors. 😭😭😭 especially with the part about how xz prefers to stay-in. and then how he likes to play games! who does he play games with??? WYB. there are already a couple of fake rumors and interviews of them talking about the two playing! it’s so nice to hear it from xz.

THE ALLEGED TALISMAN. 💛

p1 is GG recently, from his flight back home and p2 is a not so clear photo of WYB’s phone during HB screening where you can see what looks like a yellow paper. I have no question that GG does this, we have seen it before. but i like the idea of WYB doing something similar, maybe GG even drawing one for him. and this may be the reason why they chose this type of card case.

Finally, the matching ads by Shu Uemura and Loreal. Two different brands and products but I can’t help but see the similarity with the ads 🥹🥹🥹

-END.

[fossette-promenade]

I don't often talk about Taobao brands on here, despite it being very popular. Chinese lolita brands are a great option if you're on a budget, want to buy something brand new, and usually have a wider size range than Japanese lolita.

Chinese lolita fashion is a little different from Japanese style. I notice that Chinese style is a bot more extravagant, with lots of details, frilly collars, extra laces, bows, and embroidery sewn into the dress. While Japanese style often has a structured JSK, with lace just on the hem and a bow at the waist. One style isn't better than the other, and there's always a variety! It's just something I don't often see talked about.

see how the chinese style has the corset ribbons, larger necklace+bow, extra lace on the blouse, very full skirt? Both so beautiful! Chinese lolita is like a princess meeting her prince for the first time, Japanese style is like a princess strolling around town~

It can be hard to navigate through quality lolita pieces vs. mass produced, fast fashion lolita when shopping on Taobao. It is important to check the shop for details like: is the general brand aesthetic cohesive? Do they have a brand name at all? Is it a "too good to be true" price? (<$25) Try reverse image searching the product and seeing if it's sold on Aliexpress or Amazon.

Here are some Taobao brands I recommend if you like classic/sweet lolita:

Akane & Alois

Forest Wardrobe

Sheep Puff (shoes)

NyaNya

Mademoiselle Pearl

Raschel Gallery

Miss Point

huayegeye (jewelry)

There are many others as well!

I highly recommend buying shoes and purses from taobao especially. There are very many cute designs, will last longer, are more affordable, and have more size options.

You can use a shopping service like Superbuy (I have used and like it!) or many people in my comm recommend 42lolita or ChineseLolitaUpdates on Facebook. (Haven't used personally)

What do you think? Do you like Chinese lolita style? Have you shopped on Taobao before? Recommend any other brands? Let me know!

[omgthatdress]

Josefina’s birthday dress is a style nowadays called the Adelita, which was a nickname given to soldaderas of the Mexican revolution. Today, it is traditionally worn with a sombrero by horsewomen at charrerias:

(credit)

Or with additional fabric added to the skirt of folklorico dancing:

The shawl is a kind of shawl called a manton de Manila. It is a Spanish garment with Chinese embroidery, with the two cultures brought together in The Phillipines. These shawls are also referred to as piano shawls, because they’re so big they were often used as piano coverings.

(from the book Spanish New Mexico published by the Spanish Colonial Arts Society, discovered by @in-pleasant-company​)

(Spanish Colonial Arts Society on Facebook)

Black lace fans are an essential part of Spanish flamenco ensemble, and an important thing to have for Spanish young ladies. The ribs were typically made of mother-of-pearl or tortoiseshell, and the lace was black French chantilly.

(Los Angeles County Museum of Art)

The pendant looks like it might be imitating Mexican gold filigree pendants, but on a doll-sized scale:

Goldsmithing is another pre-hispanic tradition in Oaxaca. Indigenous Oaxacans combined their talents with Spanish filigree designs to create their own unique form of jewelry. With gold and emeralds coming from Colombia, Spain saw an abundance of jewelry being made in the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries, but it dried up once its colonies began declaring independence.

[craftypeaceturtle]

Something stupid...

I recently rewatched tmnt 2012 and thought... wow, there's loads of fully rendered and designed shops in the background. Has anyone ever listed them all for reference?

I didn't even check the fandom wikia so maybe someone has. But hey ho. I've done it now.

So here's all the shops and comics shown in the TMNT 2012 series, for your reference fellow writers and other insane people.

.

Comic books seen throughout the series:

'From the Sewer' (S1 E1, 08:09)

'Martial Pain' (S1 E4, 09:00)

'Famous Creatures of […] Town' (S1 E7, 22:49) **couldn't make out one of the words, sorry!

'Corps Cadares: The Dead Will Save the Earth' (S1 E11, 04:08)

'The Timely Times' (S1 E20, 09:43)

'Diabolical Dead' (S1 E20, 09:43)

'Barbarian' (S1 E20, 09:43)

'Space Heroes' (S1 E23, 10:08) -- Leo collects.

'Tales from the Cosmos' (S2 E2, 00:46)

'Dude' (S2 E4, 10:04)

'Modern Ninja Magazine' (S2 E7, 00:50) --Raph collects.

'Shock Techno' (S2 E10, 00:19)

'Weekly Weird News' (S2 E14, 28:17)

'Green with Envy' (S2 E16, 10:17)

'Split' (S3 E5, 05:45)

'Wingnut' (S4 E19, 00:12)

'Arachnid Man' (S4 E19, 00:27)

'Superb Man' (verbal, not physically shown- S4 E19, 00:29)

'Fantastic Four Food Groups' (S4 E19, 00:31) --heavily associated with Raph.

'Dracula's Castle' (S5 E17, 07:19) -- heavily associated with Mikey.

'Vampire Hunter' (S5 E17, 07:18) --heavily associated with Mikey.

.

Shops seen throughout the series: Book Store (S1 E1, 10:28)

Second Time About (S1 E1, 13:21) -- April stayed with her Aunt above this shop.

Vlad's Repo Depot (S1 E1, 19:31)

Kingfisher Antique/Rare Buy.Sell Jewelry (S1 E1, 21:30)

Fortune Cookie (S1 E3, 14:32) --Purple Dragon base

Rock Bottom Boxing Club (S1 E4, 10:27)

Old Chinatown Tattoo Company (S1 E4, 10:27)

Downtown Athletic Club (S1 E4, 16:08)

Futua-noid Electronics (S1 E5, 17:38)

Pet Supplies (S1 E5, 17:38) -- right next to an alleyway, so I would guess that this the pet store the turtles were bought from.

Mad Wax Records (S1 E5, 17:46)

Everything Store (S1 E5, 17:47)

Dim Sum Then Sum (S1 E7, 12:24)

Laundromat (S1 E7, 13:03)

The Olympia Diner (S1 E8, 02:35)

Tidal Wave Fresh Fish (S1 E8 09:24)

Balzac Chateau du Beuf (S1 E9, 00:32)

Pocket full of Rosies (S1 E9, 00:43)

Wolf Hotel (S1 E9, 13:48) --first met Shredder.

Chinese Herbs and Health (S1 E10, 15:28)

Antonio's Pizza-Rama (S1 E13, 04:53)

Produce City (S1 E16)

(Closed down) Maramba … Shop (S1 E14, 00:35)

Chilly Chillkins Refrigeration company (S1 E14, 21:03)

Roosevelt High School (S1 E15, 09:05)

Comics (S1 E15, 09:05)

Worldwide Genome Project (WGP) (S1 E15, 15:13) --used as Kraang base.

Sweet Dreams Ice Cream (S1 E17 00:27)

Madam Alahazam Fortune Teller (S1 E17 00:27)

Wam-Bam-Pow Comics (S1 E17 00:25)

D.W Yatt Apothecary Est.1875 (S1 E16)

Magic Middleton's Tricks and Costumes (S1 E21, 13:09)

Ziga's Transmission Allignment Collision Tune-Up Autobody (S1 E24, 11:46) --used as Kraang base.

Argosy Theatre (S2 E1, 01:19)

Newstand (S2 E4, 10:04)

Midtown Ice Rink (S2 E6, 06:29)

Barber Shop (S2 E8, 00:11)

Lox Schmear & Java (S2 E19, 17:21)

Bernie's General (S3 E5, 04:44)

Comet Cleaners (S3 E11, 03:29)

Play Pier (S3 E11, 09:03)

Auman Chemicals (S3 E14, 14:53)

Channel 6 (S4 E10, 07:40)

AMAS: Allied Martial Arts Supply (S4 E15, 13:24) -- Used to hold Shredder/Foot Clan's weapons.

Cowabunga Skates (S4 E17, 05:20)

Run Jump Kick (S4 E17, 05:20)

Dell Abate Ristorante (S4 E18, 06:25) -- Don Vizioso's restaurant.

Felipe's (S4 E18, 16:27)

Hicnight Hotel (S4 E18, 17:16) --Don Vizioso's base.

Mini Mart (S5 E3, 16:19)

Friendly Jack's Loans (S5 E3, 17:43)

Wan Dingo's House of Curiosities and Oddities (S5 E5, 13:28)

Shanghai Sternn's Stir Fry (S5 E10, 12:04)

.

Notes:

The episode timestamps might not be totally accurate since I was watching this on a... ahem... legal website.

The timestamps are from when you could clearly and obviously see the shop signs. Like, Ziga's is visible from like episode one but couldn't be clearly read.

Some of the comics were just in shop windows and not really associated with a character so be careful. That is not a list of every comic the turtles have read. Like the Timely Times has only been in the background, not read by a particular turtle.

There were LOADS of shops where the shop name was in Chinese (or Japanese, I don't know) and so I couldn't list. Most of the shops by the Chinatown arch weren't in english. That's why even Murakami's shop isn't listed here. Because the actual shop name wasn't in english.

Thanks for reading through this. Hopefully this was useful for... anyone out there.

[aikoiya]

LoZ - Hyrulean Cultural Aesthetics

Important to note, Hylians, Sheikah, Gerudo, & Lupáns are all considered human.

Those with pointed ears are referred to as Cuspan & those without are called Ovelian.

Overall Cultural Influences:

Central Hyrule & Hylians specifically = Medieval Germanic & Arthurian English with some variation depending on location. All Hylian towns will likely have a little bit of this in them.

Ovelians = Rural, small town, down home, farmer, tough as nails, survivor, rough around the edges, traditional, conservative, but still rebellious, & generally very good-hearted. That means they are the rednecks, the cowboys, the military men, the American Southerners, the Vikings, & the Celts kind of characters. You're salt of the earth types. At least in feel, though not necessarily in culture. It's because of this that humans generally get along well with Gorons. Either way, humans stick mostly to the agricultural & ranching settlements for the most part.

Zora = Hard to tell as they generally don't wear clothing, but they do wear a lot of jewelry. If I had to give them clothes, I'd definitely say they'd be something flowy. Possibly Roman or Greek in fashion to go with the water theme? As for sensibilities, maybe a bit of French Rococo. I also get the impression that the Zora's Domain is actually divided into 2 levels: the Upper Domain & the Lower Domain. The Upper Domain is what we see in the games & consists of the commercial district & palace. The Lower Domain is entirely underwater & is where the Zora actually live. The reason we don't see it is because Link can't dive.

Rito = Northern Native American. Aldean specifically. Maybe a bit of Latin American.

Goron = A mix of Maori (Polynesian), African, Dwarven, & maybe a bit of Old West mining town, though it's hard to tell for certain as they generally don't wear clothing. At the same time, their general architecture seems to have a Town of Bedrock-type feel to it. Definitely something with a decent source of friendly machismo (not what is considered "toxic masculinity;" actual machismo). Something masculine & tribal, but also community oriented & friendly.

Gerudo = Egyptian/Middle Eastern Amazons with some Orc influence. Possibly with some hints of Hindu too. At least as far as fashion goes.

Korok/Kokiri = If Peter Pan & the Lost Boys were Hobbits.

Twili = Possibly Scandanavian? Also Chinese with some Japanese influences.

Mogma = They seem to be Brooklyn-ish. Maybe even a bit of an Italian-American Mob feel, but more so in the "friendly gangster" way. So, I'm seeing some Bensonhurst influences, which is a specifically Italian-American borough within Brooklyn, I believe. Maybe even a bit of New York Jewish? Like, they come across as being Italian mafia adjacent, but only in so much as the accent, the attitude, & family-oriented organization. Sort of an "it takes a village" & "we take care of our own" type of mentality. Not in any way actually mafia though & certainly not in the romanticized view of gangsters as I don't actually see the Mogmas being the types to actually commit crimes on the reg. And despite being avid treasure-hunters, they seem to have a general culture of altruistic generosity. By that, I mean that their love language is gift-giving.

Yeti = Norse Viking.

Minish = Borrowers.

Anouki = Inuit.

Lokomo = Possibly Greek?

Zonai = Mesoamerican.

*Búralupán = Gaelic, Celtic, & Nordic. (This is a race I made up, if you wanna know more, go to Wolf Link & the Lupán Race.)

Smaller Settlements:

Hateno = I'm getting Gaelic Scottish farming town. Also maybe a bit of Spain, Italy, & Greece. Mostly inhabited by humans, both Cuspan & Ovelian.

Kakariko = Japanese with maybe a touch of American Old West. While primarily Japanese, there's also some definite South Korean influences. Especially in their cooking.

Mabe = Rustic dairy ranching town vibes because I'm putting Lon Lon Ranch there. Based on how AoC & LA's Mabe was designed, their roofing is colorful terracotta tile & generally has ivy & such growing on their homes, so maybe Colonial Spanish. Mostly inhabited by humans.

Goponga = I'm getting rural Luisiana Bayou vibes, most likely due to it being located in a swamp. So, primarily Cajun, French, & Colonial Spanish with some Zora inspiration maybe. Mostly inhabited by humans & Zora.

Deya = Not sure yet, but I'm giving them a vineyard, peach orchard, & making them use them to make moscato, so maybe an old Tuscany winery & fishing village? Mostly inhabited by humans. From what we see in the games, it was actually the biggest settlement in Hyrule besides Castle Town, so it could've been a full-on town or city.

Ordon = Has a rural ranching feel & might be inspired by a southern agricultural town in Italy called Ordona. So, maybe rural Italy with American South mannerisms & sensibilities. Culturally, though, I get Gaelic Irish vibes. It might be the smials… Also, maybe a little bit of Welsh too. Either way, it's mostly inhabited by Ovelians & Lupáns (more Ovelian than Lupáns) with the occasional Hylian, Sheikah, & 1 or 2 Gerudo. (For more of their overall culture, go to Ordonian Culture & Ordon Cooking Culture.)

Lurelin = Rural Hawaiian fishing village. Maybe a little bit of Caribbean & Okinawan? With a little bit of Mesoamerican mixed in due to Zonai influence from the nearby ruins.

Ealiyah = Tibetan-flavored Gerudo farming & brewing town. Maybe a little bit of Russian & hints of Norse too? Also, interior decoration is eclectic & cluttered but cozy & colorful in a vibrant, rustic Bohemian sort of way. There are also some influences from humans, including Ovelians, Hylians, Lupàns, & even Sheikah to a degree as several of each race lives there too (all men), but overall, the culture remains mostly that Tibetan-Gerudo sort of style. They do a lot of weaving & sewing as well as dying. (This is a town I made up, for more on its culture & history, go to Ealiyah Town & the Highlands Gerudo.)

- Hànmalàn Hamlet = A small majority Upper Middle Eastern/Southeast Asian-flavored Gerudo settlement in the Faron Jungle with some Lurelinites & a number of Sheikah living there as well. Located in Damel Forest.

Tabantha Village = Norse with Rito, Yeti, & Lupán inspiration. So, old Norse Viking, Aldean, Celtic, & Gaelic with a Russian & Welsh accent. They use a lot of furs in their clothing. Mostly inhabited by Ovelians, Hylians, Rito, Yeti, & Lupán.

Shadow Hamlet = Dwarven possibly, with Goron inspiration. So, very masculine. Maybe a bit of Old Western Mining Town. A mix of Gorons, Hylians, & Ovelians tend to live here.

Koholint Domain = This is on the Koholina Archipelago, which Eventide Island is the smallest island of & will eventually become a fishing & port town. In-world, it has influence from Zora, Rito, & Lurelin. But, from a real world perspective, it's mostly Polynesian, coastal Native American, & coastal Hindu with some ancient coastal Greco-Roman (even Atlantis-like) influence for the underwater sections of the settlement. As well as in their formal fashion. There would likely be a tiny bit of Carribean & Okinawan influence in there too. The population is made up of Euryhaline Zora (able to survive in both salt & fresh water), Coastal Rito, & Lurelin humans. And, much like with how I think the Zora's Domain is built, the settlement's commercial district is on land, while the Zora residential area is underwater. The Rito & human residences, as well as the Cheiftain's home, are also on land. (For more on the specifics of this, go to Euryhaline Zora & Coastal Rito Port Town.)

Gatepost, Outpost, & East Post = These are all a package deal. These are mostly military towns, so that'll definitely factor in. They are positioned in such a way as to protect Oldcastle. Mostly inhabited by Hyrulean Humans, but with smatterings of the other races too.

Oldcastle = The site of OoT's Castle Town, a.k.a. the Great Plateau, so there'll be some DEEP historical significance going on. As such, it's mostly Medieval Germanic & Arthurian English. Mostly inhabited by Hyrulean Humans.

LoZ Cultural Masterlist

[aungaung168]

Today, we’re veering off the beaten path to spotlight a commendable endeavor by a client we’re proud to associate with.

Today, we embark on an exciting departure from the usual and turn our spotlight onto a remarkable project undertaken by one of our esteemed clients, an association we take immense pride in.

The arrival of a newborn is a moment of pure joy, filling the hearts of all involved with an undeniable charm and a deep desire to commemorate the occasion with a special gift. While the conventional choice of traditional baby attire is undeniably sweet and endearing, it often represents the well-trodden path when it comes to gifting. But for those who seek to infuse a touch of unexpected delight into their gestures, we invite you to join us on an exploratory journey through the lesser-known realms of baby gifting in the enchanting landscapes of Malaysia.

Here, amidst the vibrant tapestry of cultures and traditions that weave together, we’ll uncover a world of creative and thoughtful options that extend beyond the ordinary. From exquisitely handcrafted baby clothing that pays homage to the rich heritage of the region to innovative and eco-conscious baby products that resonate with the spirit of the modern world, the possibilities are boundless. So, if you��re in the mood for something refreshingly unique and are ready to veer off the beaten path, let’s embark on this adventure together and redefine the art of newborn baby gift sets in Malaysia.

Malaysia: A Legacy of Meaningful Gifting

Malaysia boasts a vibrant cultural mosaic, reflected beautifully in its gift-giving customs. Here, presenting gifts transcends routine—it’s a heartfelt expression, deeply woven into the fabric of their customs and a symbol of deep respect.

Interlacing the threads of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences creates an expansive gifting palette that seamlessly marries tradition with modernity. Whether it’s festive periods, birthdays, or other significant events, the people of Malaysia prefer gifts that echo the receiver’s emotions.

Welcoming New Life with Open Arms in Malaysia

In the realm of new beginnings, the cultural tapestry of Malaysia comes alive with the celebration of new life. Each community, with its distinctive rituals, takes center stage. The Malay community, for example, has unique celebratory practices and blessings deeply rooted in their faiths. What’s common across these traditions is the sheer joy expressed through gifting, with offerings ranging from elaborate jewelry to bespoke baby garments, each imbued with hopes for the infant’s future.

A Blend of Time-Honored and Contemporary

While Malaysia holds dear to its established infant traditions, it’s not untouched by modern global influences and societal changes. Parents often combine old customs with new trends. Baby showers, originally a Western concept, have gained traction, blending festivity with anticipation.

The gifting of keepsakes, such as the infant’s first hair lock or footprint impressions, has also become popular, highlighting the evolving culture of Malaysia, which respects its heritage while welcoming new practices.

Blissbies: A New Epoch of Baby Gift Sets in Malaysia

Say goodbye to the conventional stuffed toys and bodysuits; Blissbies Malaysia is transforming baby gift sets in Malaysia. Their expertly chosen baby gift sets marry enjoyment with learning, and they come with a seal of approval from the toughest judges—babies themselves!

The experience is elevated by the presentation—the artisanal kraft boxes that not only carry gifts but become a part of the celebration.

Awaiting inside? Ingeniously designed playthings to enthrall young, curious minds.

Blissbies’ Essence: Beyond the Tangible

Blissbies’ vision extends past the physical products. They champion gifts with significance, items that become companions on the wondrous journey of parenthood, aiming to create unforgettable moments with offerings that spark imagination and wonder.

Their selection, from intricately embroidered towels to personalized wooden name plaques, weaves individual tales. This, combined with their organic apparel, orchestrates a symphony of style and coziness, suitable for both girls and boys, ensuring a touch of uniqueness and joy.

The Signature Blissbies Unveiling Experience

Every Blissbies signature purple box is an odyssey of discovery. Each package is an embodiment of pure love, meticulous attention to detail, and master craftsmanship. And the surprise sachet inside? It’s the perfect finishing touch!

Elevating Gifting with Blissbies

Every package from Blissbies is a lesson in refined gifting. Presented in their iconic purple boxes, these gifts set the benchmark in the baby gifting sector of Malaysia.

The box alone makes a statement, and with the addition of the sachet, it places Blissbies at the pinnacle of baby gifting elegance.

Crafting Personalized Heirlooms

With Blissbies, generic is not an option. Explore their wide assortment and select from essentials and treasured keepsakes to create a gift that exudes warmth, innovation, and heartfelt sentiment.

Conceived for the Little Trailblazers

Blissbies curates for tomorrow’s trailblazers, catering to children from birth to two years. With an eye on inclusivity and safety, their collection promises a balance of secure and joyful products.

Blissbies: Smooth Sailing from Selection to Delivery

Navigating Blissbies’ offerings is effortless. They offer various payment methods, ensuring ease of use.

Their commitment to customer contentment doesn’t end with the purchase. They stand by their service, offering prompt assistance and resolution to any concerns, just an email away.

Fostering Development Through Purposeful Play

In the formative years, play is a significant avenue for development. Blissbies understands that toys are key in fostering cognitive, sensory, and physical growth. Their handpicked selection ensures playtime is enriching and constructive, supporting the foundation for rounded development.

Synergy of Elegance and Practicality

For Blissbies, aesthetic appeal is not an afterthought, even for the smallest of clients. Their offerings dazzle with colors, textures, and patterns, enhancing a child’s sensory journey. But their commitment extends beyond appearances, with every design stirring emotions and crafting engaging stories.

Blending contemporary design with timeless craftsmanship, Blissbies’ products embody the perfect union of beauty and utility.

Beyond a Brand, A Community

Blissbies is more than a brand—it’s a collective, nurturing a space for parents to share stories and experiences. Their engaging blog and social media channels are a treasure trove of parenting wisdom and shared experiences from their expanding community.

[santi-u]

[ bie thassapak hsu, demi-man, he/they ] Look who just landed! SANTI AMARIN-ZHAO, I sure hope you packed all you need. Perhaps you’re not worried as the CEO of X ACADEMY. The city has plenty of spots for a 29 year old SIGHIR like you. You’ll be known in the city soon enough as THE PEACEMAKER, being CHARISMATIC and INSTIGNANT. 

❯ tags — interview — bio — headcanons — wanted connections & plots

OOC Information

Fayn / PST (Vancouver, Seattle, Los Angeles) /  They/Them 

Muse: Santi Amarin-Zhao 

Tagging System: here

Interview: here

Muse’s Statistics

Full Name: Santi Amarin-Zhao | สันติ อมรินทร์ | 兆三緹

Nickname: Silk / Xiao Ti (小緹) / Titty (lmao)

Date of Birth: 28 May 2376

Gender: Demi-Man

Pronouns: He/They

Sexual Orientation: Queer

Romantic Orientation: …Ask him when he’s drunk. (Queer)

Current Age: 29

Modification: Sighir (Classified) Human :)

Affiliation: X Academy

Birthplace: New Jakarta

Current Neighbourhood: Sora

Occupation: CEO of X Academy, Philanthropist, Insider Threat, Dog Papa :)

Known Languages: English, Thai, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Bahasa

Appearance

Faceclaim: Bie Thassapak Hsu

Height: 6'0"

Eye Colour: Dark brown, almost black

Hair Colour: Naturally black, tends to dye it dark, reddish brown 

Clothing Style: Has an extensive suit collection, surprisingly only a fraction of which are custom tailored. Wears more eccentric and femme-leaning blazer choices when feeling up to it. Tends to wear layers and long sleeves even during warm weather. Wears a hat to disguise himself in the Slums. Occasionally wears glasses.

Jewelry:  Watch he inherited from a mentor. Occasionally wears a bracelet and necklace with no real sentimental meaning, just only for the vibe. 

Tattoos: N/A

Marks/Scars: An innumerable amount of scars all over his body, even his face, as a result of testing done on him. They’ve all healed nearly perfectly thanks to his Sighir powers, and as a result, they’re nearly imperceptible / basically invisible unless you know what you’re looking for and are literally up in his business. He doesn't usually let anyone get that close, physically or emotionally.

Modifications: N/A

Scent/Fragrance: Tom Ford Ébène Fumé — overall woody and smoky; has notes of incense, palo santo, black pepper, violet leaf, leather, and labdanum

Personality

Positive Traits: Charismatic, compassionate, loyal

Neutral Traits: Guarded, resourceful, analytical

Negative Traits: Hyperindependent, manipulative, self-destructive

Peeves: His lunch getting double booked, expense reports, interviews, people who pet Khoi without asking Khoi if he’d like to be pet, people who don’t respect nature

Fears: A particular part of the city he now avoids going to at all costs; locked, windowless rooms; his parents; vulnerability

Skills: Partnership management, B2B commerce, research design, organizational management, public speaking, tying the perfect tie in one shot, being able to tell what kind of spices were used in a dish, inhuman-like terrifyingly high pain tolerance

Goals: Autonomy and control over his own fate

Favourites

Likes: His black golden retriever (Khoi), a tasteful accent pocket square, street food, boba, bugs (butterflies in particular), a certain Overseer :)

Dislikes: The smell of antiseptic, stainless steel furniture and decor, loss of control 

Hobbies: Cooking, going out to Bartori or the Marwar Market in disguise to eat street food

Habits: Sleep talking, overworking, checking the app on his phone to make sure Khoi is okay at home

One Cherished Item: The chrysalis of a butterfly he helped raise in secret from a caterpillar when he was a child

Biography

UNN's Class of 2405: 30 Under 30 Interview with Santi Amarin-Zhao, CEO of X Academy

Date: September 12, 2404 Time: 13:57 PM NJT Location: X HQ, Santi’s Office

The interview takes place in the sleek, ultra-modern headquarters of X Academy, a towering structure that dominates the skyline of New Jakarta. The office is a blend of glass and metal, with a panoramic view of the sprawling city below. Santi sits behind a minimalist desk, his posture relaxed but his eyes sharp, betraying the meticulous mind behind the polished exterior. The interviewer, an experienced journalist from the United News Network, is acutely aware that this is more than just a profile piece—it’s an opportunity to peel back the layers of one of Mars' most enigmatic young leaders.

Interviewer: "Santi Amarin-Zhao, thank you for joining us today. It's not every day that we get to sit down with one of the youngest CEOs in New Jakarta's history. Let's start from the beginning—being born and raised on Mars is still not an everyday occurrence, and especially not nearly three decades ago. How has your upbringing shaped the leader you are today?"

Santi offers a warm smile, the kind that has won him the admiration from many of the million citizens of New Jakarta, but behind that smile is a carefully crafted persona. He knows exactly how to play this role, the heir to a legacy of power and innovation.

Santi: "Thank you for having me. My upbringing was nothing short of a privilege, and I recognize that every day. My mother's side was instrumental in the initial colonization efforts, and my father's side were some of the original Braax mine owners. Their combined legacy is something I take very seriously. Growing up, I was always taught that with great power comes great responsibility—not just to my family, but to the people of New Jakarta."

As he speaks, Santi’s thoughts drift momentarily to his childhood, where lessons were taught not in classrooms, but in boardrooms. His mother, a brilliant scientist, would often take him to meetings where breakthroughs in Martian terraforming and mineral research were discussed, while his father, a shrewd businessman, exposed him to the intricacies of corporate strategy. From a young age, Santi learned that every action, every word, was a move in a larger game—a game he was expected to win.

Interviewer: "That's a powerful ethos to live by. Many would say that you were born into success, but you've clearly worked hard to maintain and build upon that legacy. What drives you to keep pushing forward, especially in such a high-stakes environment?"

As the interviewer asks this, Santi leans back slightly, as if contemplating the question. The truth is, the drive to push forward comes not from ambition alone, but from a deeper, almost primal need to assert control over a life that has always been orchestrated by others. But that’s not something he can admit out loud.

Santi: "You know, it's easy for people to assume that everything was handed to me on a silver platter, but the reality is far more complex. Yes, I had opportunities that others might not, but I was also held to incredibly high standards. From a young age, I was taught the importance of hard work, and that success is not just about what you achieve, but how you achieve it. I’ve always believed in leading by example, which is why I make it a point to be in the trenches with my team, whether it's working late nights on a project or navigating the complexities of our latest research initiatives."

He recalls the countless nights spent in the labs of X Academy, not because he needed to be there, but because he wanted to understand every aspect of the institution he would one day lead. He wasn’t just a figurehead—he was determined to know the ins and outs of every department, every project. The long hours weren’t just about work; they were about proving, perhaps to himself more than anyone else, that he was worthy of the legacy he was born into.

Interviewer: "It's clear that your work ethic is something you take pride in. Let's talk about X Academy. Under your leadership, it's become a beacon of hope for many in New Jakarta, especially with the rising tensions in the city. How do you balance the pressures of being a public figure with the responsibilities of running such a pivotal institution?"

Santi’s expression shifts subtly—a flicker of something deeper, darker. He knows that the public sees him as a beacon of hope, a leader who can unite the fractured city. But the truth is, the very tensions they hope he will resolve are often of his own making. He is both the architect of chaos and the one who brings order, a duality that he keeps hidden beneath layers of charm and calculated sincerity.

Santi: "Balancing those pressures is definitely a challenge, but it's one I embrace. X Academy was founded with the goal of advancing scientific research for the betterment of all Martian citizens, and that mission is something I take to heart. At the same time, I understand the power of public perception. People are looking for someone to believe in, especially now, and I’m grateful that they see me as that figure. However, it’s not just about what I can do as a leader, but what we can achieve together as a community. Creating opportunities for all, committing to public good—these are not just slogans, but guiding principles in everything I do."

He remembers the latest crisis he orchestrated in the Akumu Slums—a small piece of information, leaked at just the right time, setting off a chain of events that sent shockwaves through the city. It was a dangerous game, one that could easily spiral out of control, but Santi thrives on the thrill of it. The chaos serves a purpose; it keeps people looking to him for solutions, reinforcing his role as the indispensable leader.

Interviewer: "You've been dubbed 'The Peacemaker' by some, yet New Jakarta is far from peaceful, if we must be honest. How do you reconcile this title with the realities of the city?"

Santi knows this question is coming, and he’s prepared. The irony of the title isn’t lost on him—it’s part of the persona he’s carefully cultivated. He is the Peacemaker, but peace, as he defines it, is a tool, a means to an end. True peace would leave him with nothing to control, nothing to fix, and that’s a reality he’s not ready to face.

Santi: "The title 'Peacemaker' is both a compliment and a burden. Peace is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of justice and opportunity. It’s no secret that New Jakarta faces many challenges, from economic disparities to social unrest. But these challenges also present opportunities for growth and innovation. My job is to navigate these complexities and find solutions that benefit the city as a whole. Sometimes, that means making difficult decisions that aren't immediately popular, but I always have the long-term prosperity of New Jakarta in mind."

As he speaks, his mind wanders to the many nights he spent alone in his office, staring out over the city. From this vantage point, he could see everything—the glittering towers of the elite, the sprawling slums below. It was all part of a grand design, one he was orchestrating from behind the scenes. Every conflict, every resolution, was a step towards a future only he could envision.

Interviewer: "There's a lot of talk about the criminal underworld in New Jakarta, particularly in the Akumu Slums. How does X Academy fit into this picture, and what steps are you taking to ensure that your initiatives aren't just a band-aid on a larger issue?"

Santi’s smile doesn’t falter, but inside, he feels a spark of satisfaction. The criminal underworld is a complex web, one that he’s intimately familiar with. He’s not just aware of it—he’s a part of it, a shadowy figure pulling strings from the comfort of his high-rise office. But that’s a truth he’ll take to his grave.

Santi: "The situation in the Akumu Slums is one of the most pressing issues we face, and it’s something I’m deeply concerned about. X Academy's role is to provide education and resources that empower people to create better lives for themselves, but we can’t do it alone. That’s why I’ve been working closely with the Overseers and other city leaders to address the root causes of these problems. It’s not just about education; it’s about creating a sustainable ecosystem where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. As for the criminal circuit—let's just say, we're keeping a close eye on things and doing everything we can to ensure that X Academy’s work is part of the solution, not part of the problem."

He remembers the recent heist at one of X Academy’s facilities, a heist that the public believed was a tragedy. What they didn’t know was that Santi had orchestrated the entire event, leaking the location of the facility to a rival faction in the slums. It was all part of a larger plan, one that would ultimately strengthen his grip on the city. The stolen research was never meant to be used—it was a decoy, a test of loyalty and competence for those who would carry out his orders.

Interviewer: "Lastly, with everything you've accomplished so far, what does the future hold for you and X Academy? How do you plan to continue your family's legacy while also making your own mark?"

Santi pauses, considering his response carefully. The future is something he thinks about often, but not in the way most people do. For him, the future is a canvas, one that he can shape and mold to his liking. His family’s legacy is the foundation, but the empire he’s building will be his own.

Santi: "The future is bright, but it’s also uncertain—and that’s what makes it exciting. My family’s legacy is something I’m incredibly proud of, but I’m also focused on carving out my own path. For X Academy, that means continuing to push the boundaries of scientific research and making sure that our work has a real, tangible impact on the lives of the people of New Jakarta. Personally, I’m committed to staying grounded, to listening to the needs of the community, and to never losing sight of the values that brought me here. My goal is to make sure that when people think of X Academy, they don’t just think of a name—they think of a force for good that is changing the world for the better."

As he finishes, Santi glances out the window, his mind already racing with the next steps in his plan. The interviewer thanks him for his time, and Santi responds graciously, but his thoughts are elsewhere. The interview is just another move in the game, another step in a carefully plotted journey that only he knows the destination of.

Interviewer: "Thank you, Santi. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you, and we’re all looking forward to seeing what you accomplish next."

Santi: "The pleasure’s all mine. Thank you for the opportunity to share my story."

As the interviewer leaves, Santi sits back in his chair, allowing himself a rare moment of introspection. He’s come so far, but there’s still so much to do. The city of New Jakarta is a complex machine, and he’s the one turning the gears. The future he envisions is one of power, control, and legacy—his legacy, not just his family’s. And he won’t stop until every piece of the puzzle falls into place.

End of interview.

[aramonta]

[ ni ni, cis-woman, she/her ] Look who just landed! ARAMONTA XIA WEI , I sure hope you packed all you need. Perhaps you’re not worried as the HEAD OF INTERPLANETARY MARKETS of REDROCK (INVESTMENT COMPANY). The city has plenty of spots for a 33 year old SIGHIR like you. You’ll be known in the city soon enough as THE SPEAR PILLAR, being ASSIDUOUS and SELF-CENTERED.

OOC INFO

Ven, PST, she/they

Muse’s Name(s): Aramonta Xia Wei, Reyna Jazmyn Dizon

Tagging System: HERE

Intro: HERE

STATISTICS

Full Name: Aramonta Xia Wei, 煒霞 

Nickname: Monty

Date of Birth: November 1, 2372

Gender: Cis-woman

Pronouns: She/her

Sexual Orientation: Questioning

Romantic Orientation: Questioning

Current Age: 33

Modification: SIGHIR

Affiliation: Unaffiliated

Birthplace: New Jakarta, Mars

Current Neighbourhood: Sora

Occupation: Head of Interplanetary Markets of REDROCK, a multinational, multi-planet, near-galactic investment company

Known Languages: Mandarin, Bahasa Indonesian, Japanese, English, Arabic, French

APPEARANCE

Faceclaim: Ni Ni

Height: 5'7"

Eye Colour: Reddish Brown, her near-constant Sighir usage leaves a red colour, like a filter or sometimes a luster, over her brown irises

Hair Colour: Dark

Clothing Style: loves silk, soft and breezy, custom designed clothing, often defaults to business casual/formal, has so many suit variants, reserves dresses and gowns for galas, doesn't understand dressing down, monogrammed everything

Jewelry:  multiple rings on both hands, hand chains as everyday fashion, earrings for specific situations, necklace made from family heirloom gold, nipple stuff (cause she was curious and still doesn't understand the hype)

Tattoos: N/A

Marks/Scars: Scarification of three phoenixes over her spine (an homage to Bixia Yuanjun, the Chinese Taoist Goddess of the dawn, childbirth, and destiny)

Modifications: N/A

Scent/Fragrance: Tom Ford Myrrhe Mystère

PERSONALITY

Positive Traits: driven, passionate, adaptable, confident

Neutral Traits: pragmatic, amoral, reserved, realistic

Negative Traits: apathetic, impatient, unsympathetic

Peeves: Scraping silverware, loud people, meetings that should have been an email, being late

Fears: Society’s ruin, failure, losing her fish

Skills: business acumen & development, analytical reasoning, risk management, professionalism, rapport building

Goals: Hostile takeover of Redrock, social stability

FAVOURITES

Likes: Dumdum the goldfish and Alastair the Koi, numbers, watching popcorn pop

Dislikes: Wasting time, condensation that appears on food after you put it in the fridge/leftovers, doctors/hospitals

Hobbies: Football, Piloting, Meditation, Collecting Archival fashion

Habits: Using SIGHIR for pain transference, forgetting to drink water, keeping snacks in her pockets

One Cherished Item: Dumdum

OVERVIEW

Her father was a rags-to-riches story, who started as a boots-on-the-ground terraformer who rose up the ranks to become the President and CEO of the ASPECT company. Its name is an acronym for AeroSPace, Exploration, Colonization, and Terraforming. ASPECT made significant contributions to Mars colonization, habitation, and terraformation. Her mother became the CFO of REDROCK and was from a family with deep roots in global business which naturally evolved and scaled up to the interplanetary stage. When they met, she was charmed by the silver fox and it didn’t take long for them to embark on a journey to become a family.  Aramonta had a warm upbringing and had never been without her parents’ love. She was free to find her direction and experience things independently, but her parents’ busy careers often left her without their gentle guidance. Maybe that was why things sometimes slipped through the cracks of their attention and they missed the initial signs of her illness.  She was three when she wished she could tell her nanny that breathing made everything feel like knives stabbing inside of her whole body, but she couldn’t find the words through her screams or sobs. She thought that the pain would never stop, but just as the nanny was ready to call her parents, it did. While she caught her breath, she realized that her nanny was screaming in her stead, and for the first time, her eyes took on their reddish sheen. When her parents came home, they removed the hysterical caretaker and did their best to find a suitable replacement but each one afterwards suffered the same fate.  This strange recurring situation wasn’t problematic for the Wei family. Instead, it was a complicated inconvenience. Through a series of secretive tests,  Aramonta’s parents learned of her SIGHIR nature and recognized her need for stand-ins. They readily, and at one point, desperately, found staff members appropriate for her condition to buy more time. Still, this solution was nothing close to a permanent cure and not without lasting repercussions. Pain was an excellent teacher but Aramonta couldn't remember the last time she took a lesson from pain in the form of a first-hand experience. While her body tore itself apart, she largely lived her life painlessly by callously utilizing others to move toward the extremes and redefine expectations. Her parents, unable to part with their cherished daughter, did little to limit her.  As part of her masquerade, she continued the family legacy and became an emerging leader in finance. Aramonta was quickly named the poster child for bridging the wealth gap and creating accessible avenues for financial well-being. Optically, she was a young and fit thirty-something uniquely positioned to change systems and influence industries toward equitable solutions. However, reality as she understood it was fundamentally unjust, and despite its imperfection, as her parents put it, it was still worth saving. Resources were limited and the systems to procure them were fragile, so her real purpose was to maintain the systems to ensure society's existence while selling market manipulation in a pretty box as inequity reduction. Raised by the belief that she could do anything, she met her family’s greatest expectations and exceeded them. She was already wearing shoes thought to never be filled by her so all that was next was to carry worlds on her shoulders. Between the tasks of caring for society and her race against time, the latter terrified her. After all, who could replace her?

FUN FACTS

The Spear Pillar refers to a spear in Shinto mythology, that was used to create a bridge between heaven and earth.

Dumdum the goldfish is an oranda goldfish with a multi-coloured cap that makes it look dog-like. She received Dumdum from her mother. Alastair the koi fish was given to her by her father. Every birthday, all she asks from her parents is for a fish. She has fish on Earth, in space, on ships, and on Mars.

She has a Filipino nanny turned personal chef named Magdalena Santos, or Maggie for short. Monty respectfully calls her Nanay Maggie, with Nanay meaning "mother" in Tagalog, her nanny's native tongue. She has managed to survive Monty's sighir.

She also has a butler named Walter. He typically handles the less-than-savoury tasks that would leave Nanay Maggie sick.

[floofvoid]

Got dressed up to go to a local event called "Art Garden KC" today. Specifically went to support a friend and bought some fun jewelry from her booth.

JSK: AatP

Blouse: I forgot, but I know it's Chinese indie

OTKs: AP

Headband: Sweet Dreamer???

Bat Necklace and new jewelry: Twinkle Bat Designs

Wrist cuffs: Peacockalorum

Shoes: TUK

[minato-division03]

The morning light filtered through the curtains of Reiaki Suzubayashi's apartment in Roppongi, casting a warm glow across the room. Today was no ordinary day—it was her birthday, and she had planned to spend it indulging in the rare luxury of sleeping in. But as the universe would have it, her plans were promptly derailed by the energetic cries of her roommate's infant son.

With a resigned sigh, Reiaki abandoned any hope of returning to her dreams. She tossed aside her blankets and stretched, her tattoos shifting over her skin with each movement. The apartment was quiet, save for the occasional cooing and babbling that drifted from the nursery, reminding her that the day had indeed begun, whether she liked it or not.

After a quick trip to the bathroom to freshen up, Reiaki made her way to the kitchen, her mind still foggy with sleep. But as she stepped out of her room, she nearly tripped over an unexpected obstacle. Catching herself against the doorframe, she looked down to see a collection of gifts, each one carefully wrapped and adorned with birthday stickers and cheerful ribbons.

A smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. Trust her roommate to go all out, even when she wasn't awake to see it. Reiaki gathered the presents, her silver jewelry clinking softly, and arranged them on her bed. The first gift beckoned to her, its wrapping paper glinting in the morning light.

She reached for it, her fingers deftly peeling back the tape to reveal the surprise that awaited her inside:

Inside a small, gift-wrapped box was a small, yet intricate music box with a cherry motif on it, as well as a cute Chinese-looking black cat on top. Looking at it, Reiaki pressed the button on the front of the music box, making the lid pop open, which released a beautiful melody filled with bells inside, making the SFX artist's mouth open in surprise. She smiled as the melody ended. Although the box itself was kinda tacky, the music it displayed was wonderous, proving that the inside is what mattered, not the outside.

Placing the music box off to the side, she looked as there was a note tape to the bottom, which read:

"Reiaki,

In the quiet of the morning, as Roppongi slowly awakens to the symphony of a new day, I'm reminded of the subtle yet profound influence you've cast upon our world. This music box, with its delicate bell melody, is a tribute to the enduring echo of your artistry and the shared rhythm of our existence. May its tune greet you like the dawn's first light—gentle, hopeful, and full of promise. Here's to the melodies yet to come and the stories they will tell. Happy Birthday, Reiaki, and may the music in your heart always play as beautifully as the sunrise that heralds a fresh start.

Warm regards,

Kai 'DJ Veenyle' Quinlan"

Giving a slight chuckle at the DJ's letter, Reiaki placed it off to the side and turned to her other gifts. Noticing the slight, sweet smell coming from one of them, the SFX artist felt her mouth water as she could picture what was inside of them. Opening them, her hopes weren't dashed as inside was what she expected:

Yup, true to her nature it was a birthday cake made by her favorite chef, Luis. The SFX artist could already fill her mouth watering looking at it, weird cat design on top, barring. Laying it off to the side, she looked at the other gift, which was slightly heavier. Like the cake, it also gave off a smell, making her pause. Opening it up, her eyes grew wide:

It was a basket full of spicy dishes and foods, most of which she had ordered and eaten at Luis's restaurant. On top of one of the foods was a note that said,

"Dear Reiaki,

Your teammates mentioned your birthday was on the horizon, so I whipped up these treats in advance. Knowing your penchant for the piquant, I've prepared this basket of spicy delights and a birthday cake to match. Enjoy the feast, and I'm eager to welcome you back at the restaurant soon.

Sincerely,

Luis Kōkyū

P.S. Appreciate you sparing me the anime requests this time. I've been binging so much lately, it's almost second nature now."

“Waaaaaaa wow, wow, wow, wow, wow!” Ayato babbled, his dazzling iridescent eyes lighting up when he heard the light and delicate music play from the ornate music box.

Just moments earlier, Reiaki dashed out of her room with her gifts in hand and into the nursery, just absolutely excited to share the wonderful goods with her favorite people.

They were all seated on the floor to Ayato’s bedroom, the gifts all spread out on the floor.

“Isn’t it cool, Ayato?” Reiaki cooed, watching the toddler pick up the music box with his tiny, chubby hands.

Juri chuckled. “The citizens within the different divisions of Minato are quite generous.”

Reiaki smiled cheekily. “Yup!”

Ayato set the music box down, his attention span already dwindling. He stood up on his two feet and waddled over to the basket of spicy delicacies and the cake.

Ayato threw himself down.

Before he could land on top of the cat cake, Reiaki quickly reached her arm out, catching the boy by his round belly and pulled him to sit on her lap. “Well that was close! Boy! That’s for us! How’re we supposed to eat the cake if it’s smushed to smithereens!”

Ayato laughed heartily and squirmed against her hold.

Juri followed her son’s gaze. “Oh dear, it seems he has his eyes set on the basket that Kōkyū-san had sent along with the cake…”

Reiaki picked up chuckling Ayato so that he was facing her. “You silly boy, that stuff is spicy. You’re not gonna like it~”

Juri reached over and picked up the tiny jar of salsa. “Actually, there is something I want to see…” she murmured as she removed the lid and scooped out some of the salsa with her nail.

“Hold on, you wouldn’t…”

Juri brought her finger closer to Ayato, who opened his mouth widely. She paused and retracted her coated fingernail. “This might be really spicy, my love, this is your chance to back down.”

Ayato squealed and grabbed onto his mother’s hand and brought it to his mouth, his tiny little baby teeth chomping down on her finger.

Reiaki gasped and pulled Juri’s finger from his mouth.

Without so much of a reaction, the roommate instead seemed to be waiting for a reaction from the toddler.

Thanks for the gifts!

[imvietnamesenotchinese]

(click for better quality)

In celebration of @foxofsunholt breathing new life into the FoS demo, I decided to order a commission of my MC, Dahlia Qiang, from @enelo!

I based my fey fox off of the huli jing from chinese mythology. I revamped her a lot and am very happy with the new design. The artist did an amazing job.

Pinterest board

More information about Dahlia under the cut!

Dahlia, alongside her little fire spirit baby, dreams of being royalty. The reason why she longs for a royal life is because she's lived most of her actual life in poverty, sleeping outdoors and making do with the bare minimum. She longs for luxury, decadence, beautiful dresses, jewelry and a knight in shining armor.

Don't ask where she got that dress, because it was most likely stolen :) She's definitely not above stealing from the rich to fuel her daydreams of being a princess.

I think her relationship with Adelaide and Mars would be very interesting. Mars is literally the knight in shining armor she's been dreaming of. Adelaide has everything Dahlia wants in her life. I imagine that their relationship could be defined as: "I hate you because you have everything I want to have" and "I love you because you are everything I want to be". So, frenemies, if that is an option in the game.

Overall, despite her fey nature, she tries her best to be a kind person. Dahlia is, deep in her heart, an optimistic sweetie whose head is in the clouds most of the time. She loves daydreaming, mostly about the fairy tale princess life she wants to live. She's creative, mischevious and affectionate.

Despite her goodnatured heart, she longs painstakingly to live a life of luxury, which makes her appear greedy, materialistic and airheaded. Unfortunately, it's not entirely untrue. Sometimes, when you've wanted something for so long, you would do anything to get it.

Anyways, I've loved FoS for a very, very long time. Seeing the blog active again fills me with nostalgia of the good ol' days. This post is a love letter to the author and to the very game itself and the characters. I'm planning on making a playlist as well <3

[sweetlog]

World of Lucky Charms: Symbols of Good Fortune and Protection 🍀✨

The Four-Leaf Clover: Ah, the classic symbol of luck! In many cultures, finding a four-leaf clover is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. Each leaf is said to represent something special: faith, hope, love, and luck. Keep your eyes peeled next time you're out for a stroll in the countryside!

The Lucky Rabbit's Foot: Despite its somewhat macabre origins, the rabbit's foot has long been considered a powerful talisman for luck and protection. Dating back to ancient Celtic and African traditions, carrying a rabbit's foot is thought to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to its owner.

The Horseshoe: Hang a horseshoe above your door for a dose of good luck! This age-old tradition dates back to ancient Rome, where horseshoes were believed to ward off evil spirits and protect homes from harm. Plus, if you hang it with the ends pointing up, it's said to catch and hold all the good luck that comes your way.

The Lucky Coin: From pennies to gold coins, carrying a lucky coin is a time-honored tradition in many cultures. In Chinese culture, coins with a square hole in the center are particularly auspicious, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. Whether it's a shiny new penny or a cherished family heirloom, a lucky coin can bring a little extra luck your way.

The Dreamcatcher: Originally used by Native American tribes to protect against bad dreams and negative energy, the dreamcatcher has become a popular symbol of luck and protection in modern times. Hang one above your bed to catch any negative vibes and ensure peaceful, restful sleep.

The Lucky Elephant: In many cultures, elephants are revered as symbols of strength, wisdom, and good luck. From elephant figurines to jewelry adorned with elephant charms, these majestic creatures are believed to bring prosperity and protection to their owners. Keep an eye out for elephants on your next shopping trip!

The Lucky Ladybug: Spotting a ladybug is said to bring good luck your way! In many cultures, these vibrant little beetles are associated with protection, prosperity, and happiness. If a ladybug lands on you, be sure to make a wish and watch as your luck unfolds.

[mariacallous]

I felt so good and relieved after how today went at work that I not only ordered Chinese takeout for dinner I spent (more than I should have but not as much as I could have) on some new jewelry (from the museum of russian art in minneapolis, two of the pieces made by a ukrainian-american designer I've been dying to own something from for a long time now, and the other being this crystal snake piece) plus I paid some bills and dealt with some groceries.